California Northstate University BSN Programs
California Northstate University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program offers a direct entry path to students who have no previous nursing education. The program combines theory with hands-on clinical practice to prepare students for success as healthcare continues to evolve faster.
Students can complete their degree in just three years through the BSN program’s unique year-round format at California Northstate University College of Health Sciences. The accelerated structure packs nine consecutive terms—three academic terms per year in Summer, Fall, and Spring—instead of the typical four-year timeline.
The program’s well-laid-out structure dedicates four terms to general education and prerequisites. Students then move through five consecutive terms of nursing core courses. This careful sequence builds a strong foundation before students tackle the more challenging aspects of nursing education.
The program has earned approval from the California Board of Registered Nursing. California Northstate University also holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WSCUC). These credentials confirm the school’s educational excellence.
The program shines through its integrated learning environment and hands-on clinical experience. Students gain real-life exposure through clinical rotations at various hospitals and healthcare facilities in the community. The university’s high-tech clinical classrooms feature realistic mannequins that mimic human physiology and respond to medical interventions.
Graduates will be ready to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN)—the final step toward becoming a licensed registered nurse. BSN graduates also qualify for the Public Health in Nursing certificate.
Now is the perfect time to become a nurse. California ranks among the top three states that need nurses the most. The state projects a need for 40,000 new nurses in the next five years, creating plenty of opportunities for BSN graduates.
The nursing program accepts 90 new students each year, with rolling admissions for every cohort cycle. Students can start their nursing education in Summer, Fall, or Spring terms.
Types of Programs Offered
California Northstate University’s nursing education pathway provides several program options that match different career goals and educational backgrounds. t programs’ core is the Direct Entry BSN program. Students can apply right after high school or transfer from another institution.
Direct Entry BSN Program
California Northstate University College of Health Sciences runs its Direct Entry BSN program in an accelerated three-year format. The program shines bright with these advantages:
- No waitlist means you start your nursing education right away
- Three yearly admission cohorts give you flexible start dates
- Students learn with future doctors, dentists, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals
This shared learning creates a rich interdisciplinary environment that reflects today’s healthcare settings. Learning with students from different healthcare fields helps build a deeper grasp of the entire healthcare system.
Additional Health Sciences Pathways
California Northstate University’s educational offerings go beyond the Direct Entry BSN program with these paths:
- Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) – A four-year degree that motivated students can finish in three years
- Pre-Health Professions Pathways – Built for students aiming for advanced healthcare degrees
- Pre-Health Post Baccalaureate – Strengthens undergraduate coursework to ready students for professional healthcare schools
- Non-Degree Seeking Coursework – Students can take individual courses to boost their educational preparation, including prerequisites for health sciences professions
Pre-Health Professions Pathways students can earn interviews with CNU Professional Schools when they meet the standard requirements. This opens doors for students who want to continue their education after getting their BSN.
The university runs summer programs for high school students drawn to healthcare careers, including a “Discover Nursing!” camp. These programs are a great way to get early nursing experience and help students decide if a BSN from California Northstate University matches their career dreams.
California Northstate University designs each educational pathway to meet healthcare workforce demands. The university offers graduate programs like Master of Pharmaceutical Science and Master of Healthcare Administration. Yet the Direct Entry BSN program remains the main path for students focused on nursing careers.
Online and Hybrid Options
Classroom learning remains the cornerstone of nursing education at California Northstate University. The hands-on nature of the nursing profession has shaped the BSN program, which runs as a full-time, in-person program. The university managed to keep its traditional approach to nursing education while other disciplines moved online. This approach stems from the need to develop clinical skills through direct supervision and practice.
Students looking for flexibility should note that California Northstate University doesn’t offer part-time or online options for their BSN program. The university’s steadfast dedication to rigorous clinical training standards prepares graduates to enter nursing practice right after graduation.
The program’s accelerated pace offers a different kind of flexibility. Students can start their experience at multiple points throughout the academic year with start dates available year-round. This schedule lets you begin your studies when it fits your timeline best, instead of waiting for one yearly admission cycle.
Students at California Northstate University learn in an integrated environment with extensive hands-on clinical experiences. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills that modern healthcare settings demand, which helps graduates succeed in their careers.
The College took steps toward state-of-the-art education through its Faculty Learning Community initiative in summer 2019. This program helped build expertise in technology-assisted teaching and assessment techniques in existing CNU courses. The BSN program, however, continues as an in-person experience without online or hybrid options.
Students who need distance learning options might want to think over other nursing programs that offer hybrid formats. Most nursing programs nationwide combine online instruction with supervised field experiences. Your choice should weigh California Northstate University’s accelerated, immersive in-person program against your scheduling needs.
Admission Requirements
Getting into California Northstate University College of Health Sciences BSN program depends on your educational background. The university sets different standards for new college students and transfer applicants.
New college students should have a minimum high school GPA of 3.0. Your high school coursework must include four years of English, three years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher), two years of natural science with lab, and two years of social sciences. You need B- grades or better in these subjects.
Students who want to transfer need a 3.0 college GPA with at least 25 semester units (or 37.5 quarter units) completed before transfer. You’ll also need a B grade or higher in all natural and behavioral science courses taken in the last five years.
Whatever your entry path, you must meet these requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
- Complete the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) with minimum scores of:
- 75% overall score
- 75% science score
- 70% math score
- Submit 2-3 letters of recommendation
- Complete the NursingCAS application and supplemental CNU BSN Program Application
- Submit a curriculum vitae or résumé
- Pay all required NursingCAS fees
The program accepts applications for multiple start dates throughout the year. The 2025-2026 academic year deadlines are April 21, 2025 for summer entry, and August 4, 2025 for both fall and spring entries.
After acceptance, you’ll need to submit final official transcripts, meet technical standards and immunization requirements, and pass a criminal background check before enrollment. California Northstate University takes an integrated approach to assess applications. They look at academic records, healthcare experience, community involvement, and personal characteristics.
Military members with healthcare experience might qualify for credit after assessment. Healthcare professionals with LPN/LVN licenses could get transfer credit or choose the specialized 30-unit non-degree option.
What’s Different about the BSN Programs at California Northstate University
California Northstate University’s BSN programs stand out beyond their accelerated format and admission processes. Their practical focus and unique educational environment make these programs exceptional.
The program’s integrated learning environment offers a unique experience in interprofessional education. Students learn alongside future pharmacists, physicians, and dental professionals. This prepares them for collaborative healthcare environments after graduation. The approach encourages a deeper understanding of healthcare discipline interactions that improve patient care outcomes.
State-of-the-art simulation labs showcase high-fidelity mannequins that mimic human physiology and respond to interventions. Students can practice critical skills in a controlled environment before entering clinical settings. This hands-on approach builds their confidence and competence before patient interactions.
The curriculum design at California Northstate University takes a distinctive path. Students complete general education requirements in the first four terms. Five consecutive terms of nursing core courses follow this foundation. This strategic sequence helps students master fundamental knowledge before advancing to complex nursing content.
Faculty members bring rich clinical experience to the classroom. They maintain active practice while teaching in a variety of specialties. Their ongoing involvement keeps lessons relevant to current healthcare challenges.
Small class sizes set this program apart from other nursing programs. Students receive customized learning and better access to faculty mentorship throughout their educational experience.
Strong connections with California’s healthcare system create valuable opportunities. Students complete clinical rotations at various hospitals and healthcare facilities in the community. This exposure to diverse patient populations and healthcare delivery models prepares them for adaptable nursing careers.
Graduates can take the NCLEX-RN exam and qualify for the Public Health in Nursing certificate. These credentials open up immediate career opportunities after licensure.