15 Best BSN Programs in California for 2025

The BSN programs in California could be your gateway to an amazing career. California leads the nation with 332,560 nurses. Registered nurses here earn an impressive $139,250 on average each year.

The nursing landscape in California looks incredibly strong. More than 20,000 nursing positions will open up yearly between 2023 and 2027. Schools like CSU Long Beach showcase the quality of education available. Their graduates achieved a 99.02% NCLEX pass rate from 2016 to 2021. The school’s 98% employment rate for graduates speaks volumes about their program’s effectiveness.

Quality education from CA BSN programs leads straight to career success. CSU Long Beach’s graduates demonstrate this with their median salary of $86,010. Employers value nurses from top institutions, and it shows in their compensation. This piece dives into the 15 highest-ranked BSN nursing programs in California for 2025. You’ll find everything you need to choose the right nursing program that matches your career goals.

1. California State University, Long Beach

California State University, Long Beach ranks as a vanguard of nursing education in California through its BSN program. The institution earned its place among the top nursing colleges in California because of its outstanding educational quality and student outcomes.

Program overview

Students need five semesters of full-time study after finishing prerequisites to complete the BSN program at CSU Long Beach. The program offers state-of-the-art simulation labs and clinical experiences throughout the Greater Los Angeles area. Students learn evidence-based practice, critical thinking, leadership, and cultural competence to become well-rounded nursing professionals. The program also offers hands-on experience through research opportunities and Student Nurse Association participation.

CSU Long Beach NCLEX pass rate

CSU Long Beach achieved an extraordinary NCLEX-RN first-time pass rate of 99.94%, which substantially exceeds the national average of 87.22%. The program managed to keep near 100% NCLEX pass rates consistently in the last five years.

Admission requirements

The competitive program requires completion of four natural science prerequisites (Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Chemistry, and Microbiology) and four general education prerequisites (Statistics, Oral Communication, Written Communication, and Critical Thinking). Applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA in prerequisites and a 3.25 cumulative GPA. The selection process uses the Casper situational judgment test and evaluates written and oral skills through a communication exercise.

Tuition and costs

Full-time students pay in-state tuition of $3,042 per semester. Annual tuition and mandatory fees amount to $7,374 for California residents and $18,294 for out-of-state students. Students should also plan for housing and meals ($16,666), books and supplies ($1,590), transportation ($1,252), and personal expenses ($4,140) yearly.

Career outcomes

CSU Long Beach’s nursing program graduates see excellent job prospects, with the university achieving a 75% overall graduation rate. While specific nursing placement data isn’t available, nursing graduates typically earn a median salary of $86,010. Employers value CSULB’s nursing degree as much as UC schools’ degrees because the program’s practical approach equips graduates with skills the healthcare industry needs.

2. Sonoma State University

Sonoma State University at 50 years old is one of the premier nursing colleges in California. This respected school has shaped the careers of more than 4,000 nurse practitioners, educators, and leaders who serve communities throughout the region and beyond.

Program overview

The BSN program at Sonoma State follows a detailed four-year structure. Students spend their first two years completing pre-nursing prerequisites and general education requirements before moving into the nursing major. The curriculum combines classroom learning with clinical instruction in a variety of specialties like medical-surgical, mental health, pediatrics, obstetrics/gynecology, and community health nursing. The program’s focus on social justice awareness and health equity sets it apart. Students benefit from full accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approval from the California Board of Registered Nursing.

Sonoma State NCLEX pass rate

The program’s NCLEX-RN exam results speak volumes with a five-year average pass rate of 98.89%. Students achieved a perfect 100% pass rate in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2021, with a small drop to 94.44% in 2020. These outstanding numbers have pushed Sonoma State to become the second-highest ranking BSN program on multiple nursing education lists.

Admission requirements

To join this competitive program, you need:

• A minimum overall college GPA of 3.0
• A completed TEAS exam
• B or better grades in all prerequisites
• A Certified Nursing Assistant license before starting the program

Required prerequisites include integrated chemistry, anatomy with lab, physiology with lab, microbiology with lab, oral communication, English composition, critical thinking, and statistics.

Tuition and costs

California residents pay $8,624 (2024-25) while out-of-state students face annual costs of $23,764. Room and board runs about $16,802. In spite of that, 73% of students get financial aid, with net prices that vary based on family income.

Career outcomes

The program’s graduates achieve remarkable success with a 100% employment rate. Their median salary reaches an impressive $109,020. Students learn to understand their healthcare role and how to make meaningful changes in communities of all types, thanks to the program’s emphasis on social justice awareness and health equity.

3. California State University, Stanislaus

California State University, Stanislaus ranks as the 4th best nursing school in California and 22nd nationally. The school has earned its place among the leading nursing institutions in the Western United States.

Program overview

Students can choose from four BSN pathways at CSU Stanislaus. The traditional pre-licensure track runs at the Turlock campus. Students can also opt for an RN to BSN track with both in-person and online options, an LVN to BSN track, or complete an Accelerated Second Bachelor’s degree in just 17 months. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education has fully accredited these programs, and they have California Board of Registered Nursing approval. Students learn patient-centered care, cooperative teamwork, evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and information literacy.

CSU Stanislaus NCLEX pass rate

The school maintains an impressive 97.34% average NCLEX-RN pass rate over three years. This is a big deal as it means that these results surpass California state averages (90.77% for ADN programs and 89.46% for BSN programs) and national averages (85.80% for ADN and 86.21% for BSN). First-time test takers consistently achieve pass rates between 95-100%.

Admission requirements

The competitive program requires:

• Overall GPA of 3.0
• Science prerequisite GPA of 3.0
• Non-science prerequisite GPA of 3.0
• Minimum 70% score on ATI TEAS exam
• Completion of at least 2 science and 2 non-science prerequisites
• Passing a physical exam, drug screening, and background check

CSU Stanislaus tuition and costs

In-state undergraduate costs total $8,690 ($6,450 tuition plus $2,240 campus fees). Out-of-state students pay an additional $396 per unit. Students should also budget for books ($1,106), living expenses ($9,824-$19,684 depending on housing), transportation ($1,412-$2,456), and personal expenses ($2,528-$3,514).

Career outcomes

Graduates earn their Public Health Nurse Certification after completing the program. They can work in a variety of settings beyond traditional healthcare facilities. These include pharmaceutical companies, insurance firms, schools, psychiatric units, and home-care agencies. The university’s graduation rate stands at 58%, placing it among the top 50% of institutions. CSU Stanislaus BSN graduates master health promotion, disease prevention, risk reduction, and illness management. This expertise helps them guide individuals and communities toward optimal wellness.

4. Stanbridge University

Stanbridge University ranks as one of the top nursing programs in California, earning Niche’s #1 Best College for Nursing in California title in 2023. This private institution delivers quality nursing education at multiple Southern California campuses.

Program overview

The BSN program at Stanbridge University offers practical training at campuses throughout Orange, Los Angeles, and Riverside counties. Students learn in advanced laboratories with cutting-edge healthcare simulations and the West Coast’s first synthetic human cadaver lab. The learning experience combines online mentorship and practice tests to help students master their skills. The California Board of Registered Nursing approves the program, which also holds accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Stanbridge NCLEX pass rate

The university’s BSN program shows outstanding results with a 95% NCLEX-RN licensure pass rate from 2019-2023 at both Orange County and Los Angeles campuses. The numbers got even better with a perfect 100% NCLEX-RN pass rate for 2023-2024. These results show how well the program prepares students for their nursing careers.

Admission requirements

Students must complete these steps to join the BSN program:

• Submit an online application and pay $50
• Score well on the Next Generation Accuplacer exam (Reading 250, Sentence Skills 237, Arithmetic 237, Elementary Algebra 237)
• Get at least 68% on the ATI Critical Thinking Assessment
• Provide official transcripts showing high school completion or equivalent
• Clear a background check
• Meet with the Program Director or designee

Tuition and costs

Students pay $691.22 per quarter credit hour for the BSN program. Yearly expenses beyond tuition typically range from $5,726-$8,953 for personal costs, $7,665-$11,172 for transportation, $2,604-$7,511 for food, and $13,573-$17,773 for housing. Students pay around $21,416 per year after financial aid.

Career outcomes

The healthcare industry recognizes Stanbridge’s strong reputation, which helps graduates succeed in various settings. California’s Employment Development Center expects nursing jobs to grow by 16% between 2016 and 2026. BSN graduates from Stanbridge enter the healthcare workforce ready to deliver excellent patient care and clinical practice.

5. California State University, Sacramento

Sacramento State’s School of Nursing equips students to guide people from all backgrounds toward better health through nursing science, shared practice, advocacy, and service. This institution stands out among notable nursing colleges in California with its complete BSN program.

Program overview

The Sacramento State School of Nursing serves more than 550 students in its BSN and MSN programs. Students get extensive clinical experience through the traditional BSN curriculum to become registered nurses. The program also features an RN-to-BSN pathway through innovative partnerships with three local community colleges. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education has fully accredited both the baccalaureate and master’s programs.

CSU Sacramento NCLEX pass rate

Students show remarkable competence with NCLEX-RN pass rates consistently above 93%. Recent data reveals an impressive 97.33% pass rate in 2021-2022. The program has managed to keep an outstanding 97% average pass rate in the last decade.

Admission requirements

Students must complete a competitive two-step process that includes:

• University application plus supplemental nursing application
• Minimum science GPA of 3.0 (anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry)
• Minimum nursing GPA of 3.3 on prerequisites and corequisites
• ATI TEAS score of at least 75% (minimum of 91.4% for recent admissions)
• California residency (exceptions for DACA, AB 540 students, and military fee waiver)

Tuition and costs

Full-time undergraduate in-state students will pay $4,507 per semester ($3,225 tuition plus $1,282 mandatory fees) for 2025-2026. Students from outside California pay an extra $444 per unit. Students should also plan for books ($1,188), transportation ($1,470-$2,594), and personal expenses ($3,292) yearly.

Career outcomes

Sacramento State nursing graduates earn a median salary of $105,852. This is a big deal as it means that the national average for nursing graduates by 68%. BSN-educated nurses from Sacramento State can build careers in hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, insurance firms, schools, and home-care agencies.

6. California State University, Chico

California State University, Chico stands out among BSN programs in California with its practical nursing education experiences. Students get extensive hands-on training that makes this program a top choice for future nurses.

Program overview

The School of Nursing at CSU Chico offers a complete curriculum with five semesters of clinical experience that gives students an edge in their job search. Students can apply to become Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) after their first semester, which helps them gain valuable work experience before they graduate. The university also runs an RN-BSN program online to help registered nurses in rural areas advance their education.

CSU Chico NCLEX pass rate

The program shows excellent results with a 98% first-time pass rate on the NCLEX-RN examination during 2018/2019. The program managed to keep an impressive 96.4% average pass rate over three years.

Admission requirements

The program uses a points system for admission that includes:

• Students need a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA
• ATI TEAS Version 7 test score must be at least 80%
• Prerequisites include anatomy, physiology, chemistry, and microbiology with labs
• Students earn extra points for certifications, health-related work, community service, and knowing a second language

Tuition and costs

California residents pay about $8,896 yearly while out-of-state students pay $19,552. Room and board costs average $16,500. Most students (71%) receive financial aid. The actual cost varies based on family income, from $10,716 for lower-income families to $23,714 for higher-income families.

Career outcomes

Graduates earn impressive median salaries of $93,500 within their first year – one of the highest in the country. The program prepares nurses to work in hospitals, outpatient clinics, specialized units, and administrative positions. The program’s 65% graduation rate shows how well it prepares qualified nurses to meet California’s healthcare needs.

7. California State University, San Marcos

California State University, San Marcos School of Nursing puts culturally sensitive, patient-centered care first through hands-on nursing education. This 17-year-old program has quickly become one of the top BSN programs in California.

Program overview

The university provides multiple BSN pathways that meet different student needs. Students get practical experience through five BSN options including traditional, accelerated, LVN-to-BSN, and RN-to-BSN programs. The traditional BSN program focuses on community health and clinical training. RN-to-BSN students can complete their degree online in just 14 months. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits all these programs.

CSU San Marcos NCLEX pass rate

The program’s graduates show their clinical expertise with a 96.19% NCLEX-RN pass rate in the 2021-2022 academic year. The average NCLEX pass rate stands at 96% in the last decade. These results show how well the program prepares skilled nurses.

Admission requirements

Students must complete a competitive supplemental application process. Points are awarded based on:

• Minimum 3.0 GPA in pre-nursing core courses
• ATI TEAS Version 7 with minimum composite score of 71%
• Completion of anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry prerequisites
• Points for second language proficiency and healthcare experience

Tuition and costs

Traditional BSN students pay standard CSU fees—approximately $8,086 for California residents and $20,686 for out-of-state students yearly. Room and board costs $15,388. RN-to-BSN students pay $340 per unit, which adds up to about $11,900.

Career outcomes

The program maintains a 68% graduation rate. Graduates can work in various healthcare settings. The program’s focus on culturally sensitive care helps nurses serve California’s diverse communities effectively. Strong partnerships with local healthcare providers help new graduates start their careers smoothly.

8. Concordia University Irvine

Concordia University Irvine’s Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program stands out among nursing colleges in California. The program offers an innovative path for career-changers who want to enter the healthcare profession quickly.

Program overview

Students with a bachelor’s degree or at least 65 non-nursing college credits can complete their nursing education in just 15 months. The program gives students two options: they can study on campus in Irvine or choose a hybrid format in Rancho Cucamonga. Students gain hands-on experience through 765 hours of clinical practice. The university opened its Concordia-Spectrum Campus recently, which adds 20,000 square feet of state-of-the-art nursing teaching space.

Concordia NCLEX pass rate

The university’s 97.96% average NCLEX pass rate speaks volumes about its quality. Cohorts 6 and 7 hit perfect 100% NCLEX pass rates. Other sources confirm the program’s excellence with an overall 98% NCLEX pass rate.

Admission requirements

To qualify for admission, applicants must:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree or minimum 65 non-nursing college credits
• Maintain a minimum 3.25 cumulative GPA
• Complete 75 hours of patient care experience
• Earn a “B-” or higher in science prerequisites and “C” or higher in other prerequisites
• Complete an admission committee panel interview

Tuition and costs

The 2025-2026 academic year tuition costs $990 per unit. Students also pay a one-time skills lab fee ($450), student service fee ($110 per semester), software subscription ($202.24), health assessment fee ($150), and tracking system fees.

Career outcomes

Concordia’s nursing graduates work at prestigious institutions like Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Children’s Hospital of Orange County, St. Joseph’s Hospital, Cedars Sinai, and UCI Hospital. Hospitals respect the university’s nursing program so much that many employers actively seek out Concordia graduates. We focused on developing caring, compassionate, and competent nurses, which has made our graduates highly sought-after professionals in the healthcare industry.

9. California State University, Bakersfield

Multiple prestigious lists have ranked California State University, Bakersfield among the best nursing schools in California. The school delivers outstanding nursing education with excellent graduate outcomes.

Program overview

CSUB’s Department of Nursing runs a traditional BSN program that takes 3 years/6 semesters with summers off. Students learn to become skilled at critical thinking, leadership, case management, and health promotion. CSUB stands as the only public university in its region offering a BSN degree. The department also provides an RN-to-BSN pathway and an MSN program focused on Family Nurse Practitioner training. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredits all programs, and the California Board of Registered Nursing approves them.

CSU Bakersfield NCLEX pass rate

CSUB shows an impressive 98% NCLEX pass rate. This is just behind CSU Long Beach’s 99%. The program managed to keep an excellent 96% average pass rate in the last decade since 1970.

Admission requirements

The competitive admission process looks at:

• Overall prerequisite GPA (minimum 3.0)
• Science & Statistics prerequisite GPA (minimum 3.0)
• TEAS score (minimum 72%)
• Healthcare experience (recommended but not required)
• Local preference for Bakersfield service area
• Interview component for finalists

Prerequisites include anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, statistics, communication, English, and critical thinking.

Tuition and costs

In-state students pay approximately $7,374 in annual tuition and fees. Total program costs run around $32,081. This covers one-time expenses like uniforms ($200), stethoscope ($100), and ongoing costs for books, clinical lab fees, and insurance.

Career outcomes

More than 2,400 BSN graduates from CSUB have served their communities since 1970. While the university’s overall graduation rate sits at 48%, nursing graduates tend to stay in Bakersfield and Kern County, adding value to local healthcare. Health profession graduates from CSUB earn a median salary of $81,247, making it the university’s highest-paying degree.

10. San Diego State University

San Diego State University ranks high among nursing programs in California BSN options. Students enjoy modern facilities and detailed clinical experiences. The School of Nursing partners with over 100 community organizations throughout San Diego and Imperial Valley Counties.

Program overview

Students can choose multiple paths to earn a BSN degree at SDSU. The traditional undergraduate program and RN-to-BSN completion track takes 8-15 months. The curriculum covers 26 nursing course units and needs 9 general education units in a hybrid format. Students learn using state-of-the-art resources. The facilities include a media lab, health assessment lab, nursing fundamentals skills labs, and the Sharp Healthcare Human Patient Simulation Center. Rigorous coursework and clinical experiences prepare graduates for the NCLEX-RN exam.

SDSU NCLEX pass rate

The School of Nursing boasts a 95% NCLEX-RN pass rate. Some sources show an impressive 95.70% three-year average. These numbers are a big deal as it means that SDSU students perform better than national averages, proving the program’s strength.

Admission requirements

Admission to the BSN program requires:

• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Completion of prerequisites including anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry (all with labs)
• Additional prerequisites in oral communication, written communication, critical thinking, and statistics
• Submission of application through Cal State Apply

Tuition and costs

California residents pay approximately $8,290 in basic tuition and fees. Non-resident students must pay an extra $444 per unit. Students need to plan for books ($1,188), transportation ($1,470-$2,594), and personal expenses.

SDSU career outcomes

SDSU’s impressive 92% graduation rate shows strong career prospects. Alumni work in regional hospitals, clinics, schools, and healthcare agencies. The program’s strong healthcare organization connections help students find clinical placements and build professional networks.

11. California State University, Fullerton

California State University, Fullerton stands out among top nursing colleges in California with BSN pathways that meet different student needs. The School of Nursing has built a strong reputation for delivering quality education at affordable rates, making it a smart choice for future nurses.

Program overview

CSU Fullerton’s baccalaureate curriculum offers several paths to earn a BSN degree. Students can choose from pre-licensure options like Traditional BSN, Upper-Division Transfer BSN, LVN-BSN, Accelerated BSN, and Concurrent Enrollment Program. These tracks prepare students to become certified public health nurses in California. The BSN program has full approval from the California Board of Registered Nursing, which allows graduates to take the California RN license exam. Students must complete a background check before admission to ensure patient safety.

CSU Fullerton NCLEX pass rate

The traditional and accelerated BSN programs at CSU Fullerton have achieved an impressive 92% NCLEX-RN pass rate in the last decade. The success rate has climbed to 98.67% recently. These remarkable results show how well the program prepares nurses for their professional journey.

Admission requirements

Each pathway has unique admission criteria. Traditional BSN students need a 3.0 cumulative GPA to start their nursing courses. Students can apply through Cal State Apply from October 1 to November 30 each year. The Traditional BSN pathway accepts California residents only. Competition runs high for the Upper Division Transfer BSN pathway with just 5-10 seats available yearly.

Tuition and costs

Students benefit from CSU Fullerton’s affordable education with yearly in-state tuition at $7,470—32% lower than the national average for public universities. Non-resident students pay $20,070 per year. Additional costs include food and housing ($18,898), books, supplies, and personal expenses. The good news is that 59.2% of students get financial aid.

Career outcomes

Career opportunities abound for graduates in California and beyond. Alumni data from 2010-2020 shows that 73% of CSUF graduates work in their chosen field. Popular career paths include accounting, marketing management, and software development. CSUF health profession graduates earn competitive salaries, and most stay close to home—88.08% continue working in California.

12. University of California, Irvine

UC Irvine’s Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing offers a carefully structured BSN program as part of the prestigious University of California system. The program combines challenging academics with hands-on clinical experiences to prepare graduates for California’s competitive healthcare landscape.

Program overview

UCI’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing Science program readies students for professional nursing through a four-year curriculum. Students complete general education requirements and science prerequisites in their first two years before moving to upper-division nursing courses. The program combines theory with research-based clinical experiences to develop critical thinking and caring behaviors needed for clinical expertise. Students learn in a state-of-the-art 9,000 sq. ft. simulation center equipped with high-fidelity manikins and advanced audio/visual capabilities.

UC Irvine NCLEX pass rate

BSN students at UCI show exceptional clinical competence with a 91.5% NCLEX-RN pass rate. The program’s graduates have scored above national averages on licensing examinations consistently. UCI now ranks among California’s top nursing schools, maintaining pass rates above 90%.

Admission requirements

UCI’s nursing program attracts many qualified candidates. The program selects freshmen who rank highest using specific criteria. Transfer students must meet these requirements:

• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Completion of required prerequisites
• Strong academic performance in science courses

Change-of-major students must apply in summer to start in fall, with strict enrollment limits. Students need to maintain a 2.75 GPA in upper-division nursing courses after admission.

Tuition and costs

Annual in-state tuition runs about $11,928, while out-of-state students pay more. Full-time resident students can expect yearly costs around $33,231, including student health insurance. Students should also plan for housing, books, transportation, and personal expenses.

Career outcomes

UCI nursing graduates find positions at prestigious institutions like UCI Medical Center and other leading healthcare facilities. The program’s graduates are predominantly Asian, Black, Hispanic, Native American, or Pacific Islander (80.2%). UCI’s diverse student population reflects its dedication to preparing nurses who can serve California’s multicultural communities effectively.

13. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

UCLA’s School of Nursing ranks among the most esteemed nursing program offerings nationwide. The program blends scientific foundations with hands-on clinical experience to prepare graduates who excel in healthcare settings of all types.

Program overview

UCLA’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program combines theory with clinical practice in its complete curriculum. Students build their nursing skills through classroom learning and supervised clinical experiences. This 73-year-old school has 559 students enrolled in four degree programs (BS, MECN, PhD, DNP). Students learn patient care, health promotion, and disease prevention while developing their critical thinking and leadership skills. The BSN program’s excellence shows in its #9 ranking among Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs by U.S. News & World Report.

UCLA NCLEX pass rate

UCLA nursing graduates show their clinical expertise with an 87% first-time NCLEX pass rate in the last decade. Recent data points to even better results with a 94.73% NCLEX pass rate. This is a big deal as it means that UCLA students perform better than the national average, proving how well the program prepares practice-ready nurses.

Admission requirements

Only 9% of applicants make it into the program. New students must meet general UC admission requirements and submit extra nursing application materials. Transfer students need to meet tough standards – a minimum 3.5 GPA in transferable courses, finished prerequisite science courses, and IGETC certification. Required courses include general biology, general chemistry, organic chemistry, human anatomy with lab, and human physiology with lab.

UCLA tuition and costs

California residents pay about $13,752 for tuition and fees, while out-of-state students pay much more at $46,326 yearly. Students should also plan for health insurance ($6,632), food and housing ($26,091), books and supplies ($2,467), transportation ($3,465), and personal expenses ($2,920).

Career outcomes

Top institutions eagerly hire UCLA graduates. The university ranks high for employability. The school’s strong connections with Kaiser Permanente, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, and many other healthcare organizations help graduates find jobs. The program’s 93% graduation rate shows how well UCLA prepares qualified nurses to meet California’s healthcare needs.

14. California State University, Los Angeles

The Patricia A. Chin School of Nursing at California State University, Los Angeles has multiple degree pathways. This public institution shines among other BSN programs in California with its detailed offerings and welcoming approach.

Program overview

Students can choose from several BSN pathways at the Patricia A. Chin School of Nursing. These options include traditional pre-licensure, RN-to-BSN, ADN-to-BSN collaborative, and accelerated programs. Students build their expertise in nursing leadership, critical thinking, and patient-centered care. The school currently serves more than 400 baccalaureate and roughly 200 graduate students. The programs hold full accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approval from the California Board of Registered Nursing to prepare future healthcare professionals. The university’s student-to-faculty ratio stays at 22-to-1.

CSU LA NCLEX pass rate

Cal State LA’s NCLEX-RN exam results speak volumes. Traditional BSN students achieve a 95% pass rate while ABSN programs reach 96.5%. The program’s five-year success rate stands at an impressive 95.4%. The school’s track record shows excellence with a remarkable 98.44% NCLEX pass rate in 2019.

Admission requirements

The competitive admission process looks for:

• A minimum 3.25 GPA (3.60 makes a stronger application)
• TEAS exam scores of 70% or higher (80+ strengthens your chances)
• B grades or better in all prerequisites
• Healthcare volunteer/work experience (strongly recommended)

Competition runs high as 700 applicants vie for 70 available slots each year.

Tuition and costs

Full-time in-state undergraduates pay $3,764.20 per semester. Out-of-state students face an additional $444 charge per unit. Students should plan for room and board ($17,998), books, supplies, and personal expenses. The Western Undergraduate Exchange program reduces tuition to 150% of in-state rates for qualified out-of-state students.

Career outcomes

Cal State LA graduates see promising career prospects with a university-wide graduation rate of 52%. Health profession graduates earn median salaries of $42,925. Rich clinical experiences prepare nurses to serve California’s diverse communities effectively.

15. Simpson University

The Betty M. Dean School of Nursing at Simpson University stands out among nursing colleges in California. The school blends professional nursing education with a distinctively Christian approach. This makes it an attractive choice for students who want healthcare training rooted in values.

Program overview

Simpson University’s nursing program features both a prelicensure BSN and an RN-to-BSN track. The traditional BSN program combines nursing theory with general education courses. Students get to work with community healthcare leaders. The program’s state-of-the-art simulation labs help boost learning outcomes through hands-on clinical experience. Each student builds a professional portfolio to showcase their accomplishments, which opens up more job opportunities. The program’s unique strength lies in its faith-based nursing approach where caring is at the heart of professional practice.

Simpson NCLEX pass rate

The program’s graduates have managed to keep an exceptional 98% NCLEX pass rate. Some sources point to an impressive 94% average since the program started. These outstanding results show how well the program prepares nurses who are ready for professional practice.

Admission requirements

Getting into Simpson University isn’t easy – the acceptance rate is just 14%. Future nursing students need a 3.2 unweighted high school GPA. They must also earn a B or better in Algebra 2 or higher. The ATI TEAS exam is part of the requirements, with students needing a minimum adjusted individual total score of 70. The application process includes two recommendation letters and a personal statement.

Tuition and costs

The 2024-25 academic year’s undergraduate tuition at Simpson University costs $39,706. Students pay about $12,150 yearly for food and housing. This brings the total estimated cost to $56,222. The good news is that after financial aid, the average net price drops to $24,437.

Career outcomes

The nursing program shines with its 100% job placement rate. Graduates find work in a variety of healthcare settings, from hospitals to community agencies. The university’s latest reports show that 70% of students who graduated in 2022/2023 now earn $50,000+ annually. Students learn to blend their faith with professional practice while respecting others’ spiritual beliefs. This combination of Christian caring and professional excellence sets graduates up for success.

Find Your Ideal CA Nursing Program Now

Your choice of nursing program is a vital decision that shapes your healthcare career. In this piece, we got into the 15 best BSN programs in California. Each program has its own strengths and great outcomes. California leads the nation in nurse employment and offers great pay. This makes it a perfect place to get your nursing education.

The numbers tell quite a story. CSU Long Beach boasts a 99.02% NCLEX pass rate and 98% of its graduates find jobs quickly. Schools like Sonoma State, CSU Stanislaus, and Stanbridge University show their worth with NCLEX pass rates above 95%. These schools really prepare their students to succeed.

Money plays a big role in picking your program. Yearly tuition ranges from about $7,374 at CSU Long Beach to higher costs at private schools. Think over these costs and match them against program results and financial aid options to get the most from your investment.

Each program has its own entry rules. The top schools just need a GPA of 3.0-3.25, good TEAS scores, and specific course requirements. So start preparing early to boost your chances with these selective programs.

California BSN graduates enjoy amazing job prospects. Median salaries run from $86,010 to over $109,000, depending on the school. Plus, most programs report 95-100% employment rates. This shows how much California needs well-trained nurses.

Now you have everything you need to pick the right nursing program. California offers great options whether you care most about cost, NCLEX success, or specific features. Use this data as your guide to find a BSN program that lines up with your career goals and personal needs.