collageCalifornia has some of the best nursing schools in America. The Golden State is a haven for people of all backgrounds and walks of life. Nursing programs in California have high acceptance rates when compared to national averages. These schools are open to both RN and LPN students, so the options available to applicants are extensive. Here is a look at some of the top nursing schools in California.
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Best Community Colleges in California for Nursing
Nursing schools in California on this list were ranked mostly by NCLEX-RN pass rates, with other quality-indicating factors such as total enrollment, tuition, and acceptance rate slightly affecting the rankings to push the higher-quality nursing schools toward the top.
Nurses are always learning. Whether it’s on-the-job with practical experience or continuing your formal education, you are always on a quest to learn more. Perhaps you’re trying to figure out how to do something better, earn your next degree, improve your relationship and listening skills, or how the latest electronic medical records program works. You are determined to move forward and be your best. If you’re looking to advance your formal education, we offer this article as a source of information on Nursing schools and acceptance rates.
There may soon be more nurses than there are jobs.
By 2025, there will be nearly 3.9 million full-time equivalent registered nurses compared with the nationwide demand of 3.5 million, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Nurses with a master’s degree, however, shouldn’t have a problem finding a job. Nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives and nurse practitioners, for example, are expected to see employment growth of 31 percent from 2014 to 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. And some schools are helping just about every aspiring nurse who wants a master’s degree reach his or her goal.
At eight nursing master’s programs – including the programs at Clemson University and Regis University – 100 percent of applicants were accepted in fall of 2015. The programs had the highest acceptance rates among 228 institutions that submitted these data to U.S. News in an annual survey.
Among the eight schools, the average number of applicants was 42. Many schools with low acceptance rates – such as Seattle University and University of North Carolina—Charlotte, which each accepted just 21 percent of applicants – had much larger applicant pools. Seattle received 344 applicants and UNC—Charlotte had 298.
Below are the 10 schools that accepted the highest percentage of nursing master’s students for fall 2015. Unranked schools, which did not meet certain criteria required by U.S. News to be numerically ranked, were not considered for this report.
| School name (state) | Number of applicants | Number of applicants accepted | Acceptance rate | U.S. News rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clemson University (SC) | 21 | 21 | 100% | 149 (tie) |
| Nebraska Wesleyan University | 45 | 45 | 100% | RNP* |
| Northwestern State University of Louisiana | 103 | 103 | 100% | 133 (tie) |
| Prairie View A&M University (TX) | 33 | 33 | 100% | RNP |
| Regis University (CO) | 52 | 52 | 100% | 168 (tie) |
| Southeastern Louisiana University | 38 | 38 | 100% | RNP |
| University of Central Arkansas | 23 | 23 | 100% | RNP |
| University of North Carolina—Pembroke | 22 | 22 | 100% | 192 (tie) |
| Monmouth University (NJ) | 80 | 79 | 98.8% | 124 (tie) |
| University of Kansas | 47 | 46 | 97.9% | 48 (tie) |
*RNP denotes an institution that is ranked in the bottom one-fourth of all master’s nursing programs. U.S. News calculates a rank for the school but has decided not to publish it.
Don’t see your school in the top 10? Access the U.S. News Nursing School Compass to find acceptance rate data, complete rankings and much more. School officials can access historical data and rankings, including of peer institutions, via U.S. News Academic Insights.
Nursing Programs With High Acceptance Rates In California
While there are many nursing program options available to you, choosing the right school is essential to successfully completing your program and landing a job in California. This article affords you access to most comprehensive online resource for finding nursing programs in California today. We offer you valuable information about the top nursing programs in California, including accepted rates, accreditation status, faculty awards, diverse background among students, tuition costs, certificate, bachelors, masters and doctorate degree offerings.
Each year, students from across the country flock to California’s top ranked universities and colleges for their education needs. The state offers a wide variety of programs including community colleges, public schools (4-year), private schools (4-year), graduate schools and professional schools (2-year). Some of these institutions offer specialties such as medical sciences or engineering fields which can be very beneficial for students who want to pursue careers in these areas after graduation from college or university level courses at accredited institutions that meet all requirements set forth by State Board of Education officials when issuing licenses to practice medicine legally within California borders without any hassle whatsoever.
California can be a great place to spend 4 years of your life, especially if you are considering attending nursing school. Many of the best nursing programs in the nation are in California — and if they aren’t located in the “Golden State,” they have a campus there. If you don’t know what we mean by campuses
This websites gives a detailed context on Nursing Programs With High Acceptance Rates In California and helps you on your career path. All you need accessibility and comprehensibility is available on the Collegelearners website . You can obtain relevant and related information on this website, you can also read on related topics such as best nursing schools in california for undergraduate, best nursing schools in California 2020 and 2 year nursing programs California and so much more right here on Collegelearners. Be sure to surf through our catalog for more information on related topics.
Colleges with High Acceptance Rates in Nursing in California
Earning a nursing degree is a major investment in education. Students who study nursing benefit by gaining problem-solving, critical-thinking, communication and technological skills. These skills may help them to find a job or qualify them for higher salaries compared to those who do not have the same level of education.
California has blue skies, sandy beaches, and excellent nursing opportunities. With a large retired population, the demand for nurses is increasing more than ever. If you want to get your foot in the door to these opportunities, you’ll want to find the best nursing schools in California. That’s why we’ve done the research for you!
Not all nursing programs are the same throughout the state, so be sure to find the perfect fit for you by checking admission requirements and essential qualities you want your school to have. Also, maybe you don’t want to stop at a simple four-year degree. If so, find the perfect RN to BSN program in California that will launch you into graduate school so you can ascend the rungs of your chosen profession.
Azusa Pacific University provides students with leadership skills and a deep level of compassion in the health care field. With innovative programs, mentors, and guides, students will have opportunities to obtain a bachelor, master, or doctoral degree online or on campus.
- Tuition: $34,754
- Acceptance Rate: 61%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Programs Offered:
- Traditional BSN degree
- Upper-Division-Transfer BSN degree
- RN to BSN degree
- LVN to BSN degree
- ELM degree
- MSN degree
- MPH degree
- DNP degree
- Ph.D. degree
2. University of California Los Angeles
The University of California in Los Angeles offers several nursing programs. Through experienced faculty and small class sizes, students will be taught critical thinking, judgment, and evidence-based nursing skills in one incredible education.
- Tuition: $12,763
- Acceptance Rate: 18%
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- MSN degree
- MECN degree
- DNP degree
- Ph.D. degree
3. California State University Bakersfield
California State University at Bakersfield offers an exceptional education by combining physical, social, and biological sciences into their nursing programs. Students will receive in-depth training in a variety of clinical settings as part of their curriculum.
- Tuition: $6,811
- Acceptance Rate: 68.8%
- Graduation Rate: 41%
- Programs Offered:
- Traditional BSN Program
- RN-BSN Program (Associate Degree in Nursing Required)
- MSN-FNP Program (BSN Required)
4. San Diego State University
San Diego State University strives to provide students with a thorough education through their nursing degrees. Students will be taught to prevent and care for illness and injuries, long-term rehabilitation, and healthy lifestyles to give patients the best care possible.
- Tuition: $6,976
- Acceptance Rate: 35%
- Graduation Rate: 66%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- LVN to BSN degree
- RN to BSN degree
- MSN degree
5. University of California Irvine
The University of California at Irvine has several degree programs to choose from. Whether looking for an advanced or basic degree, students will learn biomedical, social, behavioral, and pharmaceutical sciences combined with clinical practice and theory to obtain the best education in the health field.
- Tuition: $13,252
- Acceptance Rate: 41%
- Graduation Rate: 86%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- MSN degree
- MEPN degree
- DNP degree
- Ph.D. degree
6. University of San Francisco
The University of San Francisco offers exceptional nursing programs. The curriculum uses real-world tools in a hands-on approach combined with Jesuit values to give students the education they need.
- Tuition: $42,634
- Acceptance Rate: 71%
- Graduation Rate: 70%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- 4+1 bachelor’s and master’s degree
- MSN degree
- DNP degree
8. West Coast University Los Angeles
West Coast University at Los Angeles offers a plethora of nursing degrees both online and on campus. Students will be taught a modern curriculum with cutting-edge technology to be some of the best leaders in the health care field.
- Tuition: $33,675
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 74.1%
- Programs Offered:
- RN to BSN degree
- RN to MSN degree
- MSN degree
- FNP degree
- MPH degree
- MHA degree
- LVN to BSN degree
- LPN to BSN degree
9. Mount Saint Mary’s University
Mount Saint Mary’s University offers students real-world experience by working in hospitals all of Los Angeles. Students will be able to engage with health professionals and patients unlike anywhere else.
- Tuition: $37,500
- Acceptance Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 64.4%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- Accelerated BSN degree
- RN to BSN degree
- LVN to RN degree
10. University of California Davis
The University of California at Davis offers exceptional nursing programs for students in all walks of life. Students will learn critical thinking, lifespan development, and diagnosis and treatment in addition to their basic education.
- Tuition: $13,951
- Acceptance Rate: 38%
- Graduation Rate: 83%
- Programs Offered:
- MSN degree
- MEPN degree
- Ph.D. degree
- MS degree
11. California State University Sacramento
California State University in Sacramento offers career opportunities for students looking to expand their education. The programs are designed with flexibility to meet the needs of students who are also working and maintaining a family life.
- Tuition: $6,872
- Acceptance Rate: 72%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Programs Offered:
- RN to BSN degree
- BSN degree
- MSN degree
12. California State University Fullerton
California State University at Fullerton offers affordable and high-quality nursing degrees. Students will be taught at state-of-the-art labs through experienced faculty to give them the education they need in the health care field.
- Tuition: $6,437
- Acceptance Rate: 48%
- Graduation Rate: 56%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- Accelerated BSN degree
- LVN to BSN degree
- Entry-level MSN degree
13. Point Loma Nazarene University
Point Loma Nazarene University believes work is a sacred calling and seeks to give students the best education to support that calling. Point Loma Nazarene gives students a Christian environment to learn hands-on research and theory to support them in their careers.
- Tuition: $32,400
- Acceptance Rate: 69%
- Graduation Rate: 73%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- LVN to BSN degree
- RN to BSN degree
- MSN degree
- DNP degree
14. California State University Long Beach
California State University Long Beach has a mission to produce a student-centered learning environment to make quality professions in the health field. Students will be taught to function as professionals in a variety of health care settings.
- Tuition: $6,452
- Acceptance Rate: 32%
- Graduation Rate: 65%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- ADN to BSN degree
- RN to BSN degree
- MSN degree
- DNP degree
15. West Coast University Orange County
West Coast University at Orange County offers exceptional nursing programs that can be completed in as few as 39 months. Classes start every 10 weeks and students will be able to interact with real patients in lab settings.
- Tuition: $34,481
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 57.3%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- RN to BSN degree
- LVN to BSN degree
- LPN to BSN degree
- MSN degree
- MHA degree
- MPH degree
16. Sonoma State University
Sonoma State University offers both undergraduate and graduate nursing programs. With quality faculty, small class sizes, top-of-the-line clinical environments to practice in, and a modern curriculum, students can expect a great education at Sonoma.
- Tuition: $7,330
- Acceptance Rate: 76.6%
- Graduation Rate: 95%
- Programs Offered:
- Pre-licensure BSN degree
- Post-licensure BSN degree
- LVN 30-unit option
- MSN degree
17. San Francisco State University
San Francisco State University offers several nursing programs at varying levels of flexibility for the convenience of students’ busy schedules. Graduates will be able to work as registered nurses in pediatrics, geriatrics, gerontology, maternity, and medical-surgical nursing.
- Tuition: $6,476
- Acceptance Rate: 67.9%
- Graduation Rate: 50%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- ADN to BSN degree
- Entry-level MSN degree
- MSN degree
- Accelerated MSN degree
18. University of San Diego
The University of San Diego offers graduate-level nursing programs to students at all walks of life. Perfect for a registered nurse seeking new career opportunities, students will be prepared with a general foundation as well as master-level courses.
- Tuition: $44,586
- Acceptance Rate: 51.7%
- Graduation Rate: 77%
- Programs Offered:
- MSN degree
- Ph.D. degree
- MEPN program
19. Dominican University of California
The Dominican University of California strives to prepare students to meet the diverse needs of populations. Students are taught in community settings and simulation labs for both acute care and long-term care for patients in the health care field.
- Tuition: $42,552
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Programs Offered: BSN degree
20. Concordia University Irvine
Concordia University at Irvine offers contemporary and comprehensive nursing programs for all kinds of students. Through small class sizes and encouraging faculty, students can expect to receive an exceptional education.
- Tuition: $31,690
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 56%
- Programs Offered:
- Accelerated BSN degree
- RN to BSN degree
- MSN degree
- LVN to RN degree
21. Fresno Pacific University
Fresno Pacific University prepares students to become leaders in their profession. The curriculum focuses on clinical thinking and judgment, holistic care, leadership skills, nursing research, and conflict management skills.
- Tuition: $27,954
- Acceptance Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
- Programs Offered:
- RN to BSN degree
- MSN degree
- FNP degree
22. San Jose State University
San Jose State University offers a variety of nursing programs for students looking for the best fit for them. Classes are taught by experienced faculty who teach clinical skills, academic knowledge, and patient care in an array of different settings.
- Tuition: $7,378
- Acceptance Rate: 55%
- Graduation Rate: 52%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- RN to BSN degree
- DNP degree
- MSN degree
23. California State University Fresno
California State University Fresno offers exceptional nursing programs. Students will focus on management principles, leadership skills, and evidence-based practice to give students a well-rounded education.
- Tuition: $6,311
- Acceptance Rate: 52%
- Graduation Rate: 52%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- RN to BSN degree
- MSN degree
- DNP degree
- PMHNP degree
24. West Coast University Ontario
West Coast University at Ontario offers many different nursing degrees for students of all kinds looking to find the best fit for them. Through cutting-edge technology, classes can be taken online or in-class to fit students busy schedules and needs.
- Tuition: $33,675
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Programs Offered:
- RN to BSN degree
- BSN degree
- LVN to BSN degree
- FNP degree
- MPH degree
- MHA degree
- MSN degree
25. Biola University
Biola University combines Christian values with a top-notch education. Through rigorous coursework, simulation labs, and clinical experience, students will be prepared to be leaders in the health care field of their choice.
- Tuition: $34,498
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 69%
- Programs Offered: BSN degree
26. Holy Names University
Holy Names University offers many different nursing options. Students will be taught to be caring professionals, design quality nursing care, communicate effectively, and work in a variety of settings including hospitals, home care, and community clinics.
- Tuition: $35,666
- Acceptance Rate: 43%
- Graduation Rate: 50%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- ADN to BSN degree
- MSN degree
- RN to MSN degree
27. California State University Stanislaus
California State University at Stanislaus offers different nursing programs for the different needs of students everywhere. Students can take classes on-campus or online to fit their busy schedules and to balance their home, work, and academic lifestyles.
- Tuition: $6,704
- Acceptance Rate: 70.6%
- Graduation Rate: 53%
- Programs Offered:
- RN to BSN degree
- BSN degree
- LVN to BSN degree
- ASBSN degree
- MSN degree
28. California State University-Chico
California State University-Chico prepares students to become leaders in the health care field through rigorous academics, experienced faculty, clinical experience, and hard-earned medical skills.
- Tuition: $7,022
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 59%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- RN to BSN degree
- MSN degree
29. California State University Dominguez Hills
California State University at Dominguez Hills offers several nursing programs to choose from. Students will be taught in cohorts by experienced faculty with state-of-the-art technology to give students the education they need to be leaders in the health field.
- Tuition: $6,213
- Acceptance Rate: 52.8%
- Graduation Rate: 32%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- RN to BSN degree
- MSN degree
30. Pacific Union College
Pacific Union College typically uses a two-step approach to educating its students in the nursing field. With encouraging faculty, top-notch simulation labs, and an exciting and thorough curriculum, students can expect to receive the best education California can offer.
- Tuition: $29,064
- Acceptance Rate: 47%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Programs Offered:
- AS and BSN 2-step program
- BSN degree
31. California State University Channel Islands
California State University at Channel Islands offers extraordinary nursing programs. Students will be taught holistic patient care in a variety of health care settings coupled with a curriculum rich with skills and knowledge.
- Tuition: $6,547
- Acceptance Rate: 67.6%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- RN to BSN degree
- LVN 30-unit option
32. California State University San Bernardino
California State University at San Bernardino offers students a dynamic education with many opportunities. San Bernardino utilizes contemporary teaching methods in a student-based learning atmosphere with supporting faculty.
- Tuition: $6,577
- Acceptance Rate: 64.6%
- Graduation Rate: 48%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- RN to BSN degree
- FTN degree
- MSN degree
- LVN 45 Quarter-Unit option
33. Brandman University
Brandman University is ready to help you move to the next step of your career. Nursing programs have direct-application coursework in an immersive simulation lab.
- Tuition: $12,200
- Acceptance Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: N/A
- Programs Offered:
- BSN to DNP degree
- MSN to DNP degree
- RN to BSN degree
- APRN degree
34. California State University San Marcos
California State University at San Marcos offers students an exceptional education in the health care field. With experienced faculty teaching a modern curriculum with cutting-edge technology, students can expect the most at San Marcos.
- Tuition: $7,269
- Acceptance Rate: 52%
- Graduation Rate: 49%
- Programs Offered:
- Traditional BSN degree
- Accelerated BSN degree
- LVN to BSN degree
- MSN degree
35. California State University East Bay
California State University at East Bay provides nursing programs that help students serve patients from all different backgrounds. The curriculum combines general and professional education to give students the skills and knowledge they need in the competitive world of nursing.
- Tuition: $6,564
- Acceptance Rate: 74%
- Graduation Rate: 38%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- MSN degree
- DNP degree
36. California Baptist University
California Baptist University provides an excellent education combined with Christian values in their nursing program. Students will receive clinical experience through rotations in hospitals and health care facilities as well as the clinical skills and professional knowledge.
- Tuition: $30,384
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- MSN degree
- ADN to MSN degree
- DNP degree
37. Simpson University
Simpson University combines Christian values into a faith-based curriculum. With an innovative program and personal attention from faculty, hands-on experience in simulation labs and small class sizes, students can expect a high-quality education at Simpson.
- Tuition: $25,200
- Acceptance Rate: 51.5%
- Graduation Rate: 79%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- RN to BSN degree
38. National University
National University provides nursing courses online that are four to eight weeks long. Through cutting-edge technology and the flexibility of online study, students can manage their busy schedules for work and academics.
- Tuition: $12,744
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 15%
- Programs Offered:
- BSN degree
- LVN to BSN degree
- MSN degree
- LVN to RN program
39. California State University Northridge
California State University at Northridge curriculum builds upon existing competencies to combine new and old knowledge of the nursing field. Northridge strives to produce nurses in all areas of the field.
- Tuition: $6,569
- Acceptance Rate: 45%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Programs Offered:
- ADN to BSN degree
- RN to BSN degree
- Accelerated BSN degree
40. University of Southern California
The University of Southern California offers exceptional graduate nursing degrees. Through evidence-based practice, students are taught comprehensive skills and advanced knowledge needed in the health care field.
- Tuition: $50,210
- Acceptance Rate: 17%
- Graduation Rate: 90.8%
- Programs Offered:
- MSN degree
- FNP program
41. Pacific College
Pacific College offers a nursing curriculum that gives students a better understanding of ethical, cultural, and economic issues that affect patients. Through critical thinking, leadership, management, and research, students will learn to provide patient health care across a variety of settings.
- Tuition: $8,912
- Acceptance Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 59.4%
- Programs Offered:
- RN to BSN degree
- BSN degree
- LPN program
42. California State University Monterey Bay
California State University at Monterey Bay provides several different nursing programs presented in an extraordinary way. Through experienced faculty, small class sizes, and top-notch technology, students can expect the best education California has to offer.
- Tuition: $6,119
- Acceptance Rate: 35%
- Graduation Rate: 45%
- Programs Offered:
- RN to BSN degree
- ADN to BSN degree
Nursing programs with high acceptance rates can be hard to find, but we’ve done the work for you—and now you don’t have to.
The California State University System has a wide range of nursing programs that are accepted by many employers, and each program has its own unique qualities.
For example, if you’re interested in working as a nurse practitioner, then you might consider attending California State University-Sacramento’s Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. The program accepts 50% of applicants and offers three start dates per year. It takes an average of 42 months to complete the program and costs $8,200 per semester. This program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
If you’re interested in becoming a registered nurse, then you might want to consider attending University of California-San Francisco’s Master of Registered Nursing (M.R.) program. The acceptance rate for this program is 75%, and it takes an average of 22 months to complete at a cost of $14,000 per semester. This program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
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