Graduate Nursing Programs In California
Explore the top online graduate schools for Nursing programs offered across the United States as well as program components and prerequisites. Learn more about available career paths after graduation and professional organizations.
See also Graduate Schools For Nursing, how much do graduate nurses make, best graduate schools for nursing, what are the best schools for nursing, what is the best nursing masters degree to get, what is the best college for nursing, commission for graduates of foreign nursing schools & nursing schools for high school graduates
Online Dnp Program Requirements
An could take three to five years to complete, depending on the applicants experience and whether they enroll on a full or part-time basis. Applicants to online doctoral programs in nursing generally need an accredited BSN or MSN degree, along with a valid nursing license. Some programs also require a year or more of professional nursing experience.
- Online BSN to DNP programs could help students who have a BSN degree enter a DNP program and earn their MSN along the way.
- Online MSN to DNP programs are intended for students who have their MSN degree and experience.
California State University Dominguez Hills School Of Nursing
Three pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree are offered by the School of Nursing at California State University, Dominguez Hills. They offer a Direct Entry MSN pathway, an RN to MSN pathway, and a BSN to MSN pathway.
The universitys accelerated Direct Entry Program is an accelerated program designed for those with a non-nursing Bachelors degree seeking to become a Registered Nurse. The program requires 75 credits and more than 1000 hours of clinical experience. It can be completed in just six semesters of full-time study over 2 years. Students in the program earn an MSN with a specialization as a Clinical Nurse Leader.
The RN to MSN pathway is offered to RNs who hold a non-nursing Bachelors. They complete pre-requisite BSN courses along the way to their MSN.
Registered Nurses pursuing their MSN can choose from several roles/specializations including the following:
- Nurse Administrator
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Clinical Nurse Leader
Applicants entering via the Direct Entry MSN program are required to hold a Bachelors degree in a non-nursing field from an accredited college or university with a 3.0 or higher GPA in the last 60 credit hours of undergraduate study. Grades of B or better are required in all science pre-requisites . Grades of B or better are strongly recommended in all other pre-requisite courses. Students are also required to complete a Certified Nursing Assistant course prior to entering the program.
Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
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California State Fullerton Score 90
NCLEX pass rate: 96.55%
Tuition per year: $5,742
California State Fullertons nursing program has provided nurses with exceptional education for over 40 years.
Their program offers the following degrees:
- LVN to BSN
- MSN
- DNP
The school partners with several prominent healthcare providers such as Kaiser Permanente. Cal State, Fullerton, takes great pride in helping students transition from the classroom to the medical unit.
Tuition per year: $8,136
San Diego State Universitys nursing program has educated students since 1953 and is one of the more distinguished nursing programs in the nation. The program is accredited by the CCNE and the California Board of Registered Nursing.
The program offers its students several options when it comes to nursing programs. They currently offer the following degrees:
- LVN to RN
NCLEX pass rate: 98.21%
Tuition per year: $5,742
California State University, Stanislaus, is located in Turlock, California, home to more than 11,000 students. As one of the more premier nursing programs in the country, the school offers a bevy of programs for its nursing students.
The primary nursing programs offered include:
- LVN to BSN
- ABSN
- MSN
This program goes out of its way to help students learn how to provide patient-centered and evidence-based care.
NCLEX pass rate: 97.66%
Tuition per year: $5,742
The full catalog of nursing programs includes:
- LVN to BSN
NCLEX pass rate: 98.53%
Tuition per year: $5,742
The school offers the following degree programs:
- LVN to RN
Accredited Online Nursing Graduate Programs
Naturally, in addition to searching by type of program, you could do some other homework to see what features like faculty credentials, graduation rates, student services and technologies each online rn programs offers. Many online graduate nursing programs are available at regionally accredited institutions which means some of these issues could be addressed. But, you may also want to look a bit further into accreditation for individual programs.
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What To Expect In An Accelerated Nursing Program In California
After applying and being accepted, expect classes to focus on the nursing occupation and what it means to be a nurse, your responsibilities, skills, patient care, how to lead, manage, and much more.
Coursework involves roughly 20 different subjects.
Clinical training is an opportunity for students to have hands-on experience with patients in local hospitals under a doctors supervision or experienced registered nurse .
Students will devote 40 hours or more to the curriculum, where programs do not recommend full-time employment due to the programs fast pace and demand.
Samuel Merritt University: Oakland Sacramento San Mateo
Samuel Merritt University is a private health institution that is one of the most significant contributors to new registered nurses in California.
Its known for a century of nursing excellence with an accomplished faculty and staff, ensuring students get the best nursing education. It has advanced facilities such as the motion analysis research center and the health sciences simulation center.
It is a 12-month program with an intensive curriculum that trains you to become a nurse in a short period. The program includes a mix of clinical education and theory, giving you the skills to transition into a new career. Once you complete the program, you are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses, also known as NCLEX-RN.
All three campuses offer the 12-month training program at Oakland, San Mateo, and Sacramento. Only 288 seas are available annually.
Multiple starting dates are available, convenient for anyone who wants to pursue an accelerated BSN program in California.
The accelerated BSN programs tuition cost at Samuel Merritt University is $79,257 for a full-time student.
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California State University San Bernardino Department Of Nursing
California State University, San Bernardinos Department of Nursing offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree program not only to RNs with a BSN, but also to those RNs with a Bachelors degree in a related field.
MSN students may choose from three areas of specialization:
- Population Based MSN
- Nurse Educator
- Advanced Public/Community Health
Applicants entering via the BSN to MSN pathway must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Those entering via the RN to MSN pathway must hold a Bachelors degree in a related field plus demonstrate specific nursing competencies. Both must have at least a 3.0 GPA in the last 90 quarter hours of course work attempted. They must also have completed an upper division Statistics course as well as NURS 601: Prep for MSN Learning with Technology. Candidates must hold a current California license as an RN.
Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
University Of California San Francisco School Of Nursing
The School of Nursing at University of California, San Francisco offers three pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree: a Direct Entry pathway, an ADN/RN to MSN pathway, and a BSN to MSN pathway.
The Direct Entry program is a three year program for persons with no previous nursing preparation who hold a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in a non-nursing field. Unfortunately, Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees do not meet admission requirements.
The university offers an ADN/RN to MSN pathway program for Registered Nurses who have earned an Associates degree in nursing and have not earned a Bachelors degree in any major. Participants enroll in one of several bachelor completion programs at Golden Gate University or John F. Kennedy University. Once a Bachelors degree has been earned, participants can move into the UC San Francisco MSN program.
Several specializations/roles are offered to those seeking an MSN degree including:
- Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
- Adult-Gerontological Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
- Adult-Gerontological Clinical Nurse Specialist
- Adult-Gerontology Occupational and Environmental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
- Psychiatric/Mental health Clinical Nurse Specialist
Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
2 Korat Way, Room 319CBox 0604
Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
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What Are The Advantages Of A Direct
Perhaps one of the biggest advantages of a direct-entry MSN program is that its for students who studied a non-nursing field and want to become a registered nurse. Some schools may offer accelerated direct-entry programs. Those who want to earn their degree in less time may like this type of program. Like many nursing degrees, a direct-entry MSN provides many career opportunities following graduation. There are also many program options, including online programs.
Information on this page was last retrieved in June 2020.
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University Of San Francisco
Ranked No. 6 on U.S. News 2016 list of top graduate schools for clinical nurse leader programs, The University of San Francisco Nursing Schools Master of Science in Nursing is designed for RNs to gain an advanced degree by developing experience in patient care plans and best practices within the healthcare field. The program is focused mainly on preparing students on becoming Clinical Nurse Leaders and generally takes two years to complete.
RNs with a BSN will need 35 credits to graduate and RNs with an ADN are required to have 46 credits to graduate. In order to be accepted into the program, students must complete an online application, have an undergraduate nursing degree from an accredited institution, present unofficial transcripts from all colleges and institutions attended, have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, submit a personal statement, a professional resume, have an active RN License, and two letters of recommendation.
Accelerated Nursing Program Vs Direct Entry
While researching MSN programs, you may come across accelerated and direct-entry MSN programs. Both are designed for professionals looking to change or advance their nursing career. Accelerated programs may award a BSN and MSN to graduates, or they may just award an MSN. Its important to research programs carefully and find one tailored to your educational background.
Typically, those pursuing a direct-entry nursing program do not have a bachelors degree in nursing or a related field. Those pursuing an accelerated MSN may already have their BSN.
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Accelerated Nursing Programs In California
Nursing is one of the most prolific, growing fields today in the United States.
TheUS Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates nursing to grow 7% in the next ten years, faster than average.
If youre looking to become a nurse, an accelerated nursing program may be in your best interest because its faster than the traditional route. You will still get the same valuable education and experience but begin your career earlier than anticipated.
In California, nurses are the most paid in the country, providing a lucrative career and a rewarding one. There are over nine accredited Bachelors of Science in Nursing and 11 accredited Masters of Science in Nursing in California.
This guide dives into accelerated nursing programs in California, reviewing and covering each accredited school to help you in your decision making.
Nurse Salary And Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics ,
- California employs 307,060 nurses, by far the most in the nation.
- Nurses in California earned an annual mean wage of $120,560 in 2020, making it the highest paying state for nurses.
Along with large cities and natural wonders, nurses in California can enjoy the high pay especially if they specialize in their practice.
However, the downside to California is that its one of the lowest employers of nurses per capita. Only 18.69 nurses are employed per thousand jobs, as compared to 21.69 in Florida and 26.60 in Pennsylvania.
No state is without its drawbacks, though, and theres no denying that California is a top destination for nurses looking for a long, successful career in an excellent area.
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Loma Linda University: Loma Linda
Known as a Seventh-day Adventist organization, which offers 100 programs within eight schools, Loma Linda Universitys School of Nursing has been around since 1905.
LLUs accelerated BSN program comes with an option to apply for BS or MS or DNP upon completion.
Friendly staff and experts teach students to perform nursing duties in advanced clinical settings, preparing students to the fullest.
After graduation, there are various employment options, such as:
- Rehab Centers
University Of California Davis Betty Irene Moore School Of Nursing
The Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing at University of California, Davis offers Master of Science in Nursing degree programs in two specialty areas:
- Leadership
- Nurse Practitioner
The MSN in Leadership is a full-time program. It is designed to be completed in five quarters and requires a thesis.
The Nurse Practitioner program is a full-time program designed to be completed in 24 months. It requires a thesis as well as 720 hours of clinical practice.
Applicants to the program must hold a Bachelors degree in nursing or a related field with at least a 3.0 GPA. They must hold a license as a Registered Nurse. The GRE is not required.
Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
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Msn: Nursing Administration And Leadership
Cal U’s 100% online MSN program in nursing administration and leadership addresses current practice and employment trends in nursing, building on theory and knowledge from bachelor-level nursing programs. Graduates of the MSN program gain a comprehensive understanding of nursing research and a foundation for doctoral study, while also completing a capstone project focused on actual workplace issues.
University Of San Francisco School Of Nursing And Health Professions
University of San Franciscos School of Nursing and Health Professions offers a Master of Science in Nursing degree. Several pathways to an MSN are offered: a Direct Entry pathway, an RN to MSN pathway for those with a nursing diploma or Associates degree in nursing, and a BSN to MSN pathway. Only one specialization is offered: Clinical Nurse Leader.
Applicants to the Direct Entry MSN program must hold a Bachelors degree in a non-nursing field of study. A GPA of 3.0 or higher is required.
Applicants to the MSN program entering via the RN to MSN pathway are required to hold a nursing diploma or Associates degree in nursing with a GPA of 3.0 or higher..
Applicants to the MSN program entering via the BSN to MSN pathway are required to hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree with a 3.0 or higher GPA.
Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Strategic Innovation Management
Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
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Tuition Costs Of Accelerated Msn Programs In California
Accelerated MSN programs in California, and in general, tend to be higher than accelerated BSN programs.
Generally, $75,000 to $94,000 is the tuition of an accelerated MSN program in California, higher than the national average.
The cost also depends on how long the program is, as some programs are 18 months, two years, or three years.
California State University Chicoschool Of Nursing
A Master of Science in Nursing degree is available through the School of Nursing at California State University, Chico. The university offers the MSN degree in two specializations:
- Nurse Educator
- Nursing Leadership
Applicants to the program are required to hold a BSN degree from a nationally accredited program with a minimum GPA of 3.0 for the last 60 credit hours of undergraduate nursing courses, including an undergraduate Statistics course with a grade of C or higher. GRE scores from the last five year period are required. Candidates should hold a current California license as a Registered Nurse.
Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education
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California State University: San Marcos
Compared to other universities around the US, California State University San Marcos was established in 1989, which is relatively young. Cal State San Marcos is close to beaches, deserts, and mountains, giving students an advantage to enjoy themselves and take a break from its 24-month program.
Cal State San Marcos has a competitive selection process for their accelerated BSN program, requiring the following before admission:
- Pass background check and drug test
- Understand program expectation of nursing students, including a physical exam
- Meetpre-nursing core requirements
Cohorts are planned for fall, spring, and summer terms.
A cohort is a group of students who work together to achieve success as they take classes and graduate together. This accelerated BSN program may have an advantage over other programs due to creating a support system and professional network beyond completing the degree.
The program consists of 74-semester units within its 24-month program that is challenging but prepares students to the fullest. Currently, the programs unit rate is $599, with the cost total at $44,326.
Point Loma Nazarene University School Of Nursing
Point Loma Nazarene Universitys School of Nursing offers pathways to a Master of Science in Nursing degree for both diploma/ADN and BSN prepared Registered Nurses.
The RN to MSN pathway requires diploma/ADN prepared students to take three bridge courses in the Spring and Summer semesters. They then join the Fall MSN cohort and continue with the MSN course progression. Students can complete the degree program in 2.5 years as opposed to those entering via the BSN to MSN pathway who can complete the program in just 2 years. But it should be noted that a BSN degree is not conferred as part of the diploma/ADN to MSN program.
Those entering the MSN program at Point Loma Nazarene can choose from the following specializations/roles:
- Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
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