California Nursing Colleges & Licenses
Nursing Colleges Search
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Nurses are an essential part of the healthcare system, and in California, there is a shortage of them. An estimated 26 percent of California nurses between ages 55 and 64 said they planned to leave in the next two years, and not enough people are entering the profession to fill their shoes. This shortage makes it difficult for hospitals to provide quality patient care.
Currently, over 400,000 nurses are working in California. This includes licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), registered nurses (RNs), nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, and certified registered nurse anesthetists. In California, all RNs and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are licensed by the California Board of Registered Nursing, and the California Board of Vocational Nursing licenses LVNs.
To become an LVN or RN in this state, students must graduate from an approved nursing or vocational nursing school. Vocational nursing programs can be as short as two semesters, while nursing programs are typically two years for an associate’s degree in nursing or four years for a bachelor of science in nursing degree. To practice as an APRN, nurses must complete a master’s of science in nursing, a doctor of nursing practice, or a post-master’s certificate program. These advanced degrees can be completed in person or online and take one to five years.
The scope of practice for nurses in California will vary based on their education level and license level. LVNs can take vital signs, give injections, monitor patients, and provide care under the supervision of a physician or registered nurse. On the other hand, RNs can perform many of those same duties and administer IV medications.
RNs in California are considered relatively independent practitioners, so as long as they work under the scope of their practice, they do not need direct supervision like LVNs.
APRNs have even more freedom and can diagnose patients. If an APRN has completed a pharmacology course and is under the supervision of a physician, they can also prescribe most medications.
Below is a guide to some of California’s top undergraduate and graduate nursing programs, along with salary expectations and licensing requirements for nursing careers in this state.
Featured Online Nursing Programs
Accredited Undergraduate Nursing Programs in California
Allan Hancock College
At Allan Hancock College, aspiring nurses can complete an associate of science for either licensed vocational nursing or registered nursing. This program operates on a “ladder concept,” which allows students to pursue additional education while still working in a fulfilling career. At any point in the process, students can complete a degree and go to work or continue their studies to a more advanced degree.
Both programs have prerequisite licensing requirements. Applicants must hold a CNA or psychiatry technician license in California for the AS for licensed vocational nursing. To complete the AS for registered nursing, applicants must already have an LVN license in the state of California. Candidates must also complete English, math, psychology, and biology prerequisite coursework.
- Location: Santa Maria, CA
- Duration: One to two years
- Accreditation: California Board of Registered Nursing
- Tuition: $325 per credit
Bakersfield College
The Bakersfield College associate’s degree program in nursing is designed to provide the foundation for students to become competent registered nurses. The program respects each student’s individuality and provides a positive, innovative learning model that fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The goal of this program is to prepare entry-level registered nurses to become high-quality providers and managers of healthcare in a variety of settings.
Graduates will collaborate with other professionals of healthcare teams while also learning to be effective communicators who can translate complex research into meaningful clinical applications. In order to be considered for admission, students must have completed at least math b27 or have a higher placement score. Before beginning this program, students must have a valid American Heart Association BLS card.
- Location: Bakersfield, CA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: California Board of Registered Nursing and Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: $317 per credit
Rio Hondo College
There are several options for pursuing a career in nursing at Rio Hondo College. Students can complete a two-semester vocational nursing program, an LVN-to-RN associate’s degree in nursing, or a full associate’s degree in nursing for students with no prior nursing experience. Graduates of these programs are prepared for entry-level as LVNs or RNS in hospitals, long-term care facilities, surgical centers, and clinics.
Students who complete their ADN at Rio Hondo and want to pursue a BSN are afforded special acceptance priority or discounted tuition at several public and private California universities. Admission for these programs happens twice a year for either spring or fall semester and is extremely competitive. Students are required to have prerequisite coursework completed before applying. These classes include English, health sciences, psychology, and pre-algebra.
- Location: Whittier, CA
- Duration: Two semesters to two years
- Accreditation: California Board of Registered Nursing
- Tuition: $332 per credit
Pasadena City College
Students in the Pasadena City College associate’s degree in nursing program will learn how to provide quality, patient-centered care that is culturally appropriate for individuals, families, and communities. They will also learn to communicate effectively with the healthcare team, patients, families, and communities, use evidence-based practice to provide care across the lifespan, and integrate principles of quality improvement and safety into their nursing practice.
Graduates of this program are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and become an RN in the state of California. Admission requirements include a current American Heart Association (AHA) CPR/Basic Life Support Card, nursing malpractice insurance, prerequisite coursework, and a background check. Proof of English proficiency may be required for non-native English-speaking students.
- Location: Pasadena, CA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: California Board of Registered Nursing
- Tuition: $378 per credit
City College of San Francisco
The associate’s degree in nursing program at the City College of San Francisco is a challenging educational experience that will provide students with the skills to be an excellent nurse. In this program, students will learn about different areas of nursing, including patient care in hospitals or other facilities. Clinical rotations occur around the San Francisco Bay Area, with academic coursework happening on campus. Most students complete this degree in two years of full-time study.
The ADN-BSN program is a unique offering between the City College of San Francisco and San Francisco State University. Students can complete the ADN and BSN in just 2.5 years of full-time study by simultaneously taking courses at both institutions. To be eligible for this program, applicants must be incoming ADN students, have a 3.0 GPA in prerequisite coursework, and be California residents.
- Location: San Francisco, CA
- Duration: 2.5 years
- Accreditation: California Board of Registered Nursing
- Tuition: $339 per credit
Accredited Graduate Nursing Programs in California
Azusa Pacific University
The master’s of science in nursing at Azusa Pacific University offers four specialties. They include adult-gerontology primary care, family practice, pediatrics, and psychiatry. They also offer a unique school nurse services credential for advanced practice registered nurses who want to work in educational settings. All programs have the same court nurse practitioner coursework and specialty classes in the chosen focus.
Admission to the program is open each fall and spring. To be eligible for admission, applicants must have a current RN license. Other admission requirements include a written statement, a current resume, official transcripts from all institutions attended, and two letters of recommendation.
- Location: Azusa, CA
- Duration: Two to three years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $860 per credit
University of California, Los Angeles School of Nursing
At the UCLA, nurses can earn either a master’s, doctor of nursing practice, or a doctor of philosophy in nursing. Master’s options include a clinical nurse degree for students who have a bachelor’s in another field and are looking to become registered nurses or a master’s of science in nursing degree for RNs who are looking to become advanced practice registered nurses.
The doctor of nursing practice is also for nurses looking to become advanced practice registered nurses, while the PhD program is for nurses who want to work as educators or researchers.
Admission requirements vary by program but can be competitive, so strong letters of recommendation and a robust work history are highly recommended. Each year over 400 graduate students are attending this school.
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- Duration: Two to five years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $38,361 tuition for an MSN
Sonoma State University School of Science and Technology (Online)
The online family nurse practitioner master’s of science in nursing at Sonoma State University School of Science and Technology strives to provide an advanced level of education on the care of patients by focusing on professional skills. The program includes courses that cover theoretical foundations, evidence-based practice in primary healthcare settings, and leadership and policy advocacy issues. There is a four-semester-long clinical preceptorship under the supervision of a primary care provider that provides students with hands-on experience.
This degree is offered on campus in the Sonoma State University, Chico, Redding and Turlock, Modesto, Stockton, and Merced areas. Students who enroll in this program can live anywhere in northern and central California so long as they can attend some seminars and labs on campus.
- Location: Los Angeles, California
- Duration: Two years, full-time; three years, part-time
- Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
- Tuition: $860 per credit
San Jose State University Valley Foundation School of Nursing
The San Jose State University Valley Foundation School of Nursing master’s of science in nursing FNP degree prepares students to assume the highest levels of professional nursing practice in advanced roles. This is done with courses covering advanced theoretical knowledge, leadership development, and assessment skills. Students will have an opportunity to evaluate their performance critically and apply what has been learned in hands-on, supervised clinical practice at local agencies.
Students will complete this program as a cohort, which allows them to develop strong relationships with classmates and faculty. Admission is open each fall. Requirements to be considered for admission include a current California RN license, two references, a personal statement, and a current resume.
- Location: San Jose, CA
- Duration: Five semesters
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $666 per credit
California State University, Dominguez Hills (Online)
For nurses who are looking to move into an advanced practice role, California State University, Dominguez Hills offers an online master’s of science in nursing for clinical nurse specialists or family nurse practitioners. Students completing the CNS MSN can choose to specialize in either adult-gerontology or pediatrics. All didactic classes are offered online; however, students are expected to travel to campus between one to three times per semester for in-person meetings. Students must also complete 576 clinical hours with a preceptor in a local outpatient setting.
Due to the online nature of this degree program, most students complete their coursework and a part-time job format. While the program is designed for working nurses, most students find that full-time employment is challenging to completing this program. However, it is very common for students to work 25 to 30 hours a week.
- Location: Carson, CA
- Duration: Three to four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $8,493 per semester full-time
Fresno Pacific University School of Natural Sciences
A master’s of science in nursing in family nurse practice from Fresno Pacific will give students the skills to care for all types and stages of disease. This program has a strong emphasis on assessment and prevention. Students will also learn how best practices can be applied at every level, including leadership roles within healthcare organizations. Hands-on clinicals in family practice, women’s health, pediatrics, and primary care help provide a well-rounded education.
To apply for this program, candidates will need a BSN degree from an accredited nursing program, as well as verification of satisfactory completion in statistics, chemistry, and upper-division writing. Applicants must also have a current license as an RN and evidence of current malpractice insurance and physical exam/immunization. Finally, they will need to submit a resume or curriculum vitae.
- Location: Fresno, CA
- Duration: 49 units, two years, full- or part-time option
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $720 per credit
Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science – Mervyn M. Dymally School of Nursing (Hybrid)
With post-master’s certificates master’s of science in nursing degrees, and doctor of nursing practice degrees, the Mervyn M. Dymally School of Nursing at the Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science offers nurses multiple options for furthering their education. All programs are offered in a hybrid format where students are expected to be on campus once a week or once a month, with the remainder of the coursework being offered online. Graduates of these degree programs are eligible to sit for several national certifications as well as be eligible for state licensure.
To earn a post-master’s certificate, students must earn 39 credits hours, while the master’s of science in nursing requires 51, and the doctor of nursing practice requires 40. Admission requirements will vary based on the degree pursued.
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- Duration: Two years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $601 per credit
Loma Linda University School of Nursing
All of the advanced practice registered nurse degree programs at Loma Linda University School of Nursing are doctor of nursing practice degrees. There are nine specialties to choose from, including nurse anesthesia, primary care, psychiatry, and adult-gerontology. In addition to lecture classes, students are expected to complete comprehensive clinical courses and a final project. There is also a required practicum and skills lab to ensure graduates have the training necessary to excel in this field.
In total, students will earn 117 quarter credit hours to earn these degrees. Students are admitted for fall and winter admission. To be considered for admission, students must have a bachelor’s of science in nursing with a 3.0 GPA or higher and a current RN license. Other requirements include three recommendations, a personal statement, and official transcripts. An interview is required as part of the admission process.
- Location: Loma Linda, CA
- Duration: Four years
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $840 per credit
Samuel Merritt University College of Nursing
Samuel Merritt University College of Nursing Offers students several options in completing advanced nursing education including entry-level masters of science in nursing, traditional masters of science in nursing, doctor of nursing practice degrees. Most degrees are offered on campus in Oakland or Sacramento or online. Specialization options include family nurse practice, nurse anesthesia, psychiatry, and case management.
In line with SMU’s mission to prepare nurses for the future, these programs are designed to teach nurses health promotion and well-being across diverse populations. Students will also learn about social determinants of health and how it relates directly back to their practice. There is also an emphasis on innovation that will empower nurses to improve the health and well-being of their patients.
- Location: Oakland, CA
- Duration: 20 to 36 months
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $1,569 per credit
Mount Saint Mary’s University (Hybrid)
The Mount Saint Mary’s University master’s of science in nursing is committed to academic rigor and nursing excellence. Students will learn advanced theory, leadership skills, and modern-day specializations while fostering a spirit for service. The two-year program provides nurses with the necessary knowledge on issues like health equity or social justice, which can help them better serve their patients.
Specializations students can choose from include adult-gerontology, clinical nurse specialist,
nurse educator, and leadership and administration. Classes are offered in a hybrid format with in-person sessions on six weekends each semester and the remainder of the classes through distance learning. With start dates in the fall, spring, and summer semesters, students can choose when they want to start their studies.
- Location: Los Angeles, CA
- Duration: 28 months
- Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
- Tuition: $860 per credit
Nursing School Accreditation
Nursing school accreditation is a voluntary but important step programs take to demonstrate that nurses who complete their program have received a quality education. When looking for a nursing program, it is important to ensure that the program is accredited by either the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). These organizations ensure that nursing programs meet certain standards and provide students with a quality education.
In California, to be eligible to obtain an RN license, students must attend a California Board of Registered Nursing accredited program. This accreditation is sufficient on its own, but may often be accompanied by ACEN accreditation to demonstrate that the program also meets national standards.
How Much Do Nurses Make in California?
These numbers represent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics from May 2021.
Licensed Vocational Nurse Salaries
| United States | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 641,240 | 72,180 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $51,850 | $65.140 |
| 10th percentile | $37.150 | $47,750 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $48,070 | $61,600 |
| 90th percentile | $63,790 | $79,380 |
Registered Nurse Salaries
| United States | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 3,047,530 | 324,400 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $82,750 | $124,000 |
| 10th percentile | $59,450 | $78,070 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $77,600 | $125,340 |
| 90th percentile | $120,250 | $165,620 |
Nurse Anesthetist Salaries
| United States | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 43,950 | 2,000 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $202,470 | $232,540 |
| 10th percentile | $131,840 | $78,790 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $195,610 | >$208,000 per year |
| 90th percentile | >$208,000 per year | >$208,000 per year |
Nurse Midwife Salaries
| United States | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 7,750 | 1,230 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $114,210 | $137,070 |
| 10th percentile | $61,500 | $49,510 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $112,830 | $154,690 |
| 90th percentile | $166,170 | >$208,000 per year |
Nurse Practitioner Salaries
| United States | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Number employed | 234,690 | 17,400 |
| Average annual salary (mean) | $118,040 | $151,830 |
| 10th percentile | $79,470 | $103,910 |
| 50th percentile (median) | $120,680 | $149,910 |
| 90th percentile | $163,350 | >$208,000 per year |
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) Licensure in California
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| There are five methods in the states of California to qualify for a licensed vocational nurse (LVN) license. They are:
Once the method has been determined candidates must submit a completed application as well as complete a fingerprint background check using the live scan process, pass the NCLEX-PN exam, and pay the $300 to $350 application fee. |
LVN licenses in California expire every two years. To renew, applicants must obtain 30 contact hours from approved providers and pay the $305 renewal fee. |
Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure in California
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| California Board of Registered Nursing | The state of California’s requirements for RN licenses are:
| An RN license in California expires every two years in the license holder’s birth month. Applicants must do the following for renewal:
|
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Licensure in California
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In the state of California, CNS eligibility requires:
Candidates for a CNS license must meet one of the three eligibility requirements below: 1. Successful completion of a master’s program with a clinical field of nursing that meets the standards set by the state and submission the following documents:
2. Certification by a national organization whose standards are equivalent to the state of California, and submission of the following documents:
3. A registered nurse who completed a master’s degree related to nursing and can demonstrate graduate coursework in advanced nursing in the areas of expert clinical practice, consultation, clinical leadership, research, and education may be eligible for certification based on advanced nursing competencies identified in the related courses for the advanced nursing education and practice. Submission of the following documents is required:
|
CNSs in the state of California are required to renew their Registered Nursing (RN) license every two years and complete 30 contact hours of continued education taken through an education provider approved by the Board. They must also submit a full set of fingerprints to the DOJ and FBI and indicate if they have had any license discipline by a government agency or disciplinary body or have been convicted of any crime in any state or U.S. territory, military court or another country since they last renewed their license. In addition to the RN license renewal fee of $190, CNSs must also pay a renewal fee of $150. |
Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) Licensure in California
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In the state of California, a CNM eligibility requirement include:
|
CNMs in the state of California are required to renew their RN licenses every two years and complete 30 contact hours of continued education taken through an education provider approved by the Board, as well as submitting a full set of fingerprints to the DOJ and FBI. Applicants must also indicate if they have had any license discipline by a government agency or disciplinary body or, have been convicted of any crime in any state or U.S. territory, military court or another country since they last renewed their license. In addition to the RN license renewal fee of $190, CNMs must also pay a renewal fee of $150. |
Nurse Practitioner (NP) Licensure in California
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In the state of California, Certified Nurse Practitioner (CPN) eligibility requirement include:
If the applicant is applying to a California-based nurse practitioner program, they need to submit the following three documents to the Board of Registered Nursing:
If the applicant is applying to a non-California based program, they need to submit the following documents:
All applicants must pay the $500 application fee as well. |
CNPs in the state of California are required to renew their Registered Nursing (RN) license every two years and complete 30 contact hours of continued education taken through an education provider approved by the Board, as well as submitting a full set of fingerprints to the DOJ and FBI. Applicants must also indicate if they have had any license discipline by a government agency or disciplinary body or have been convicted of any crime in any state or U.S. territory, military court or another country since they last renewed their license. In addition to the RN license renewal fee of $190, CNPs must also pay a renewal fee of $150. |
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) Licensure in California
| Licensing Authority | Eligibility & Details | Renewal Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
In the state of California, a CRNA license eligibility requirements are:
|
CRNAs in the state of California are required to renew their RN licenses every two years and complete 30 contact hours of continued education taken through an education provider approved by the Board, as well as submitting a full set of fingerprints to the DOJ and FBI. Applicants must also indicate if they have had any license discipline by a government agency or disciplinary body or, have been convicted of any crime in any state or U.S. territory, military court or another country since they last renewed their license. In addition to the RN license renewal fee of $190, CRNAs must also pay a renewal fee of $150. |
Kimmy Gustafson
WriterThanks to her experience writing in healthcare, Kimmy Gustafson has delivered in-depth articles on timely topics for NursingColleges.com since 2022. Her aim is to assist both students and professionals in navigating the intricate process of selecting a nursing program and understanding the ever-evolving realm of nursing education.
Kimmy has been a freelance writer for more than a decade, writing hundreds of articles on a wide variety of topics such as startups, nonprofits, healthcare, kiteboarding, the outdoors, and higher education. She is passionate about seeing the world and has traveled to over 27 countries. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon. When not working, she can be found outdoors, parenting, kiteboarding, or cooking.