13 Best Accelerated BSN Programs in California (2025 Guide)

Want to fast-track your nursing career with an accelerated BSN program in California? You’re making a smart money move. California RNs take home an impressive $148,330 yearly or $71.31 per hour, which sits substantially above the national average.

These power-packed RN programs take 12 to 24 months to complete – perfect if you want to jump into nursing quickly. The state’s ABSN programs shine with their NCLEX pass rates. CSU Stanislaus students hit 98.68% while CSU San Marcos reaches 96.97%. Just note that California stays out of the Enhanced Nursing Licensure Compact, so the state won’t recognize RN licenses from elsewhere.

Samuel Merritt University offers a 12-month program with 48 students per term, while CSU Fullerton runs a 2-year option with smaller groups of 24 students. Tuition costs range from $23,000 to $90,000. The nursing field should grow 6% in the next decade, and with 20 accelerated nursing programs in California, your ABSN investment looks solid for the future.

1. CSU Los Angeles ABSN Program

Cal State LA’s accelerated BSN program stands out in California with a rigorous 15-month curriculum tailored for career-changers. The program’s selective nature shows in its numbers – only 30 students make the cut from roughly 200 applicants each year, resulting in a 15% acceptance rate.

Program Format

Students complete 53 semester units through five back-to-back terms: summer, fall, winter intersession, spring, and a final summer session. The program kicks off every June, with the Summer 2025 cohort’s start date set for June 2nd, 2025. A cohort-based structure demands full-time commitment, as students tackle multiple lecture courses and lab/clinical components each term.

Program Highlights

The nursing program’s excellence shines through its NCLEX-RN pass rate of 94-98%, which surpasses the national average significantly. Students learn from seasoned faculty through a curriculum that values service, inclusivity, and innovation. The College of Professional and Global Education (PaGE) runs this self-support program. Successful graduates who maintain a 3.0 GPA and clear the NCLEX can advance into Cal State LA’s MSN program.

Admission Criteria

Qualified candidates need:

• A bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing field (completed by Fall 2024 for Summer 2025 entry)
• Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA
• Prerequisites including anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry with labs (minimum “B” grades required)
• Critical thinking and statistics courses (minimum “C” grades)
• ATI TEAS exam score of at least 70%

NursingCAS accepts applications from November through January. Promising candidates typically receive interview invitations by early March.

Cost Breakdown

The program’s tuition runs $595 per semester unit, bringing the total cost to about $31,535. Students can tap into Federal Direct Loans up to $12,500 twice during their studies. Additional scholarships and grants might be available for eligible students. Cal-Vet Fee Waivers help with state-mandated fees but don’t cover this program’s self-support fees.

2. Samuel Merritt ABSN Program

Samuel Merritt University stands out with one of California’s most prestigious accelerated BSN programs. Students can complete their nursing education in just 12 months, and the program boasts an exceptional post-graduation employment record.

Program Format

The ABSN program packs three intensive semesters into a full-time, campus-based experience. Students can choose from four campus locations: Oakland, Sacramento, San Francisco Peninsula, and Fresno. Each cycle welcomes about 100 students across these campuses. Students interested in Oakland and San Francisco Peninsula should apply by December 1 for Summer admission. Sacramento and San Francisco Peninsula Fall applications are due April 1.

Program Highlights

The program’s 94% NCLEX pass rate makes Samuel Merritt graduates highly valued by healthcare employers. SMU ranks as California’s #1 university for post-graduation employment, with 86% of employers choosing their graduates. Forbes rates SMU #1 for early-career salaries. The New York Times places it among the nation’s top two universities for median income ten years after graduation. The program features one of the most diverse faculties and student bodies, which lets students experience a wide range of conditions and patients.

Admission Criteria

The program requires a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Students must maintain a 3.0 GPA in their most recent 60 semester units and four science prerequisite courses. Students need a grade of C or better in all prerequisite courses. The application process includes two letters of reference – one from a faculty member and one from a healthcare professional. Students must also submit short answer responses.

Cost Breakdown

Students can expect to pay $98,000 for the complete program, which covers 52 units at $1,885 per unit. New students must submit a $60 application fee to NursingCAS and a $350 non-refundable tuition deposit after acceptance. Federal and state grants aren’t available for second bachelor’s degrees, but students can access several scholarships and loans.

3. Mount Saint Mary’s ABSN Program

Mount Saint Mary’s University pioneered nursing education in California. The institution launched the state’s first Bachelor of Science in Nursing program with its inaugural graduating class in 1952. Today, the university offers an intensive Accelerated BSN option designed for students who already have a bachelor’s degree.

Program Format

The ABSN program packs a full curriculum into 12 months across three consecutive semesters. Students attend classroom sessions twice weekly from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. These sessions work together with hands-on clinical rotations that run three days weekly from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at leading hospitals throughout Los Angeles County. The program delivers the same curriculum as the traditional BSN but at an accelerated pace.

Program Highlights

MSMU’s program sets itself apart from other accelerated BSN programs in California through several key features:

• CCNE accreditation that meets graduate school requirements
• Rich clinical experience in healthcare settings of all types
• Strategic Los Angeles location serving diverse patient populations
• Small class sizes that enable individual attention
• State-of-the-art simulation labs and learning resources
• Robust job placement support backed by an extensive alumni network

Graduates qualify to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) and earn Public Health nursing certification.

Admission Criteria

The program requires candidates to have:

• A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA
• Prerequisite courses with grades of C or better
• Two prerequisites can be in progress during application (only one science course)

Applications open August 1 for Summer starts with a November 1 deadline. Fall start applications begin December 1 with a March 1 deadline. Qualified applicants must complete an interview either in-person or virtually.

Cost Breakdown

The 2025-2026 academic year costs include:

• Tuition (12-18 units): $25,236 per semester
• Nursing Program Fee: $527
• Nursing Professional Fee: $561
• University Services Fee: $752 per semester
• Health Insurance: $1,154 (Fall 2025), $1,855 (Spring & Summer 2026)

The total estimated program cost amounts to $84,237. ABSN students may qualify for federal, state, or private grants/loans. However, MSMU grants and scholarships do not extend to this program.

4. Concordia University ABSN Program

Concordia University Irvine’s ABSN program helps career-changers become nurses in just 15 months. Students can choose between two learning paths that match their priorities.

Program Format

Students can pick from two flexible options at Concordia’s accelerated nursing program. They can study at the Irvine campus or join the hybrid program in Rancho Cucamonga. The hybrid path blends online learning with hands-on simulation labs and starts three times a year—January, May, and August. Whatever path you choose, you’ll complete 765 clinical hours that give you extensive practical experience. Your existing college credits serve as the foundation for focused nursing education spread across four back-to-back semesters.

Program Highlights

The Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) has granted Concordia’s nursing program a 10-year accreditation, which shows their steadfast dedication to quality education. The program’s 98% NCLEX pass rate stands way above national averages. The Concordia-Spectrum Campus in Irvine gives students access to 20,000 square feet of modern nursing teaching space. These graduates are ready for work, and many employers actively seek them out because of their professional preparation.

Admission Criteria

You’ll need these qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree or at least 65 non-nursing college credits from a regionally accredited institution
• A cumulative GPA of 3.25 or higher
• Prerequisite courses with a 3.0 GPA minimum
• B- or better in science prerequisites taken in the last five years
• At least 100 hours of qualifying patient care experience

The application package should have recommendation letters, a personal essay, and you might get invited for an admissions interview. Each campus location and start date has its own application deadlines.

Cost Breakdown

The 2025-2026 program costs $990 per unit, with total expenses ranging from $60,000 to $62,000. Extra costs include:

• A one-time $450 Skills Lab Fee
• $110 Student Service Fee each semester
• A one-time $202.24 Software Subscription
• A one-time $150 Health Assessment Fee

Federal loans are the main financial aid option since federal and state grants usually don’t cover second bachelor’s degrees.

5. CSU Northridge ABSN Program

CSUN’s Accelerated BSN program helps students with prior degrees become healthcare professionals in just 15 months. This intensive option ranks among California’s top accelerated BSN programs because of its strong clinical focus.

Program Format

The ABSN program runs through four consecutive semesters. Students move forward together as a cohort through their curriculum. The program caters to professionals changing careers and arranges clinical placements at many healthcare facilities across the greater Los Angeles area. Clinical rotations can happen any day of the week, including weekends, evenings, and nights, which matches actual nursing schedules. Students need reliable transportation to reach off-campus clinical sites because the curriculum focuses on hands-on experience.

Program Features

CSUN graduates show exceptional readiness for professional practice with a 97.06% NCLEX pass rate. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredits this program that prepares students for various nursing roles such as medical-surgical, ICU, emergency, operating room, and home health positions. Graduates become part of a strong network of over 435,000 CSUN alumni. The curriculum offers detailed courses in pathophysiology, health assessment, pharmacology, and specialized nursing areas.

Admission Criteria

Applicants must possess:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with minimum 3.21 GPA (or master’s degree with 3.0 GPA)
• All science prerequisites completed within seven years of application deadline
• Prerequisite courses with minimum “C” grades
• Complete application with statement of purpose and resume

Qualified candidates might need to attend a personal interview. Clinical certifications or volunteer experience can make applications stronger, though they’re not required.

Cost Breakdown

Students pay $1,086 per unit, which adds up to about $62,988 for the 58-unit program. Students should also plan for extra costs like the $70 university application fee, graduation fee ($47), and required clinical expenses for health exams, immunizations, background checks, liability insurance, and certifications. Students can explore financial aid options, and military veterans might qualify for benefits through CSUN’s Veterans Affairs Office.

6. CSU San Marcos ABSN Program

CSU San Marcos stands out among California’s accelerated BSN programs by offering three yearly entry points. Students can begin their journey in Fall and Spring at San Marcos or Summer in Temecula. This flexibility helps students with different scheduling needs.

Program Format

The ABSN program runs for five semesters with one summer term and requires 67 units of lecture and clinical coursework. Students get valuable hands-on experience through 22 units of clinical study. The cohort-based structure ensures students have spots in all required classes. The program’s rigorous schedule includes weekend and evening clinical rotations, which makes working during the program challenging.

Program Highlights

The program’s excellence shows in its 96.97% NCLEX pass rate. CSU San Marcos earned the 2025-2026 Military Friendly® School designation with a Gold Award, showing its support for military-connected students. Students who complete the program can take the NCLEX examination to become licensed RNs.

Admission Criteria

Students must meet these requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• 2.5 GPA in last 60 semester units/90 quarter units
• 71% score on TEAS exam (version 7)
• 2.75 GPA in pre-nursing core courses
• Completion of all prerequisites including anatomy/physiology, microbiology, chemistry, statistics, oral communication, written communication, and critical thinking

Additional requirements include a physical health examination, immunizations, background checks and drug screening.

Cost Breakdown

Students pay $670 per unit as of Fall 2023, bringing the total program cost to $44,890:

Active-duty military personnel can access various financial aid options.

7. CSU Stanislaus ABSN Program

CSU Stanislaus offers a hybrid Accelerated BSN program designed for working professionals and adult learners in California’s Central Valley. Students attend classes at the Stockton Campus, making it one of the most flexible accelerated BSN programs in California.

Program Format

Students complete their ABSN program in 17 months through a hybrid learning model. The program combines online coursework with hands-on labs and clinical rotations in the Central Valley. This structure reduces travel time and makes education accessible to students across the region. Students move through the 59-unit curriculum together as a cohort, which builds a strong learning community and ensures consistent academic standards.

Program Features

The program boasts an impressive 98.68% NCLEX pass rate. Students earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree that qualifies them to take the National Council Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses. Graduates can also apply for Public Health Nurse certification in California. The California Board of Registered Nursing and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education fully accredit the program.

Admission Criteria

Applicants must have:

• A baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution in a non-nursing field
• Minimum 3.0 overall GPA
• Minimum 3.0 GPA in the four science prerequisites
• Completed eight prerequisite courses including chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and microbiology with labs

Each year, the program accepts 40 students from 150-200 applicants, with an acceptance rate of 20-25%.

Cost Breakdown

Students pay $44,840 total, which covers ATI Content Mastery Series and lab fees. The payment schedule spans four semesters:

*Includes $400 deposit

Students can access federal student loans up to $12,500 per academic year based on eligibility.

8. Loma Linda ABSN Program

Loma Linda University weaves faith-based principles into its ABSN program. Students learn to care for the whole person – mind, body, and spirit. This California ABSN program sits in the heart of the Inland Empire and takes a comprehensive approach to nursing education with extensive clinical experience.

Program Format

The accelerated BSN program spans two and a half years. Students learn full-time, mostly on campus. Small cohorts of 56-60 students ensure individual-specific attention from skilled faculty. Students get guaranteed clinical placements at seven partner facilities and expert-level simulation experiences. The university also offers an online RN to BS track for students who hold an AS level RN license.

Program Highlights

The program’s graduates show excellent preparation with a 94.23% NCLEX pass rate above national averages. The program maintains a remarkable 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Students complete 570 clinical hours in Level 1 Trauma Center ICUs. They gain hands-on experience in a variety of healthcare settings. LLUMC runs some of America’s largest clinical programs. The program also creates opportunities for student leadership and global mission service.

Admission Criteria

Qualified applicants need:

• Minimum 3.0 cumulative and prerequisite GPA
• All prerequisites completed with grade C or better
• Completed application with personal essay
• Pre-entrance exams (TEAS and Critical Thinking)
• Three letters of recommendation (2 from instructors)
• Completed high school or equivalent

Clinical settings experience through volunteer work or employment helps strengthen applications. Select candidates meeting basic requirements receive interview invitations.

Cost Breakdown

The costs include:

• Tuition: $705 per unit
• LLU quarterly fees: $919
• Clinical course fee: $575 per clinical course
• ATI fee: $225 per ATI course
• Books and supplies: Approximately $600 per quarter

Students should expect to pay around $103,120 for the complete program. Most nursing students (70-75%) at Loma Linda receive financial aid. Military-connected students might qualify for benefits. LLU’s housing availability benefits students under 21.

9. National University ABSN Program

National University stands out among accelerated BSN programs in California. The university’s Second-Bachelor BSN track offers monthly start dates and year-round enrollment. Students can transition into nursing without long waiting periods.

Program Format

Students can complete the intensive curriculum in just 15 months to prepare for RN licensure in California. The program’s original design maximizes flexibility with online, in-person, and hybrid formats that match different learning priorities. The academic year consists of four 12-week quarters, and each quarter has three 4-week classes—students take one class per month. Some students need up to 22 months to complete the whole program.

Program Highlights

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) fully accredits the program. Students learn critical thinking, clinical reasoning, leadership skills, interprofessional collaboration, and nursing skills within a transcultural framework. Graduates can apply evidence-based practice to manage nursing care for culturally diverse clients in healthcare settings of all types.

Admission Criteria

Admission requirements include:

• Prior bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Completion of prerequisites with grade C or higher (English composition, public speaking, statistics, sociology, psychology, anatomy, physiology, and microbiology with labs)
• Applications reviewed on a rolling, year-round basis

The Second-Bachelor’s track requires no application fee, essays, or entrance exams. Transfer students benefit because up to 135 quarter units count toward the 180-unit requirement. Students must complete at least 45 quarter units in residence.

Cost Breakdown

The program’s total estimated cost is $94,620, which includes:

Eligible students can access financial aid options and scholarships to reduce costs and start classes sooner.

10. SFSU ABSN Program

San Francisco State University collaborates with San Mateo Community College District to provide an intensive ABSN program. This program stands out among accelerated BSN programs in California. The program accepts only 32 students from about 200 applicants per cohort, maintaining a selective 16% acceptance rate.

Program Format

The SFSU Accelerated BSN Program runs for 15 months through four consecutive semesters and includes a summer session. Students attend all classes at the College of San Mateo instead of the main SFSU campus. The 56-unit curriculum covers detailed nursing theory, lab work, and clinical experiences. Students learn specialized areas like reproductive health, mental health, pediatrics, adult care, and community health.

Program Highlights

The program’s graduates can receive public health nursing certification in California right after earning their RN licensure. The curriculum builds strong foundations in nursing leadership that help students transition smoothly into graduate education. Students prepare for professional roles in healthcare settings of all types including hospitals, community clinics, long-term care facilities, home care, and community health agencies.

Admission Criteria

Candidates must possess:

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
• California residency or eligibility for in-state tuition
• Minimum 3.0 GPA in prerequisite courses
• ATI TEAS score of 78 or higher (maximum three attempts)
• Completed prerequisite science courses with grade C or better within the last seven years

Students can strengthen their applications with health-related work verification, volunteer experience documentation, and multilingual fluency certification.

Cost Breakdown

The program costs $799 per unit, with a total estimated cost of $44,744 for all 56 units. Students must register and pay through SFSU’s College of Professional & Global Education. The application window runs from August 1-September 2. Students need to submit applications to both Cal State Apply and NursingCAS, and send TEAS scores directly to San Francisco State University.

11. CSU Fullerton ABSN Program

CSU Fullerton’s two-year ABSN pathway gives students a balanced nursing education. The program maintains academic standards while moving at a steadier pace than other accelerated BSN programs in California.

Program Format

Students complete this program through five consecutive semesters over two years with a mandatory summer term. The curriculum runs full-time in a cohort style that students must finish without any breaks. Clinical rotations total 765 hours at healthcare facilities within a 50-mile radius of the Fullerton campus. Students work 8 to 12-hour shifts during these clinical hours. The shifts happen any day of the week, during daytime or overnight periods.

Program Highlights

CSU Fullerton keeps its classes small with about 40 students in each fall cohort, unlike most California ABSN programs. The program’s selective nature shows in its numbers. Each year brings 600-800 applicants, with only 200 qualified candidates making the cut. This results in a 7% acceptance rate. Students attend lecture courses on weekdays during morning or afternoon hours. Weekend and evening classes never happen.

Admission Criteria

Qualified candidates need:

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Minimum 3.25 cumulative GPA
• Prerequisite coursework including human anatomy with lab, human physiology with lab, microbiology with lab, and statistics
• CSUF graduate application submitted between October 1-November 30
• Official transcripts from every college-level institution attended (due January 31)

The program invites top candidates for interviews after reviewing applications.

Cost Breakdown

California residents pay an estimated total of $17,995.24. The costs split as:

• Annual tuition and fees: $8,997.62
• Two-year total: $8,997.62 (Year 1) + $8,997.62 (Year 2)

The program classifies students as “post-baccalaureate” and charges graduate tuition rates. Students should budget for extra costs beyond tuition. These include textbooks, clinical supplies, health insurance, and travel expenses to clinical sites.

12. CSU Long Beach ABSN Program

California State University Long Beach runs a rigorous Accelerated BSN program in the vibrant Los Altos neighborhood. The program builds on non-nursing bachelor’s degrees and provides solid foundations in nursing theory and practice. Students consistently achieve exceptional licensure examination outcomes, making it one of the top accelerated BSN programs in California.

Program Format

CSULB’s ABSN program follows a well-laid-out curriculum. Students progress through intensive coursework in nursing fundamentals, clinical rotations, and specialized care areas. The program combines hands-on clinical experience with theoretical knowledge to prepare graduates for a variety of healthcare environments. CSULB takes a unique approach among California ABSN programs by maintaining cohort-based learning that makes shared educational experiences possible.

Program Highlights

CSULB has proven itself as a premier nursing education institution with near 100% NCLEX-RN first-time pass rates over the last five years. Employers throughout Southern California actively seek graduates from this program. The school’s diverse and dedicated faculty deliver rigorous educational experiences that create practice-ready nurses and future nursing leaders.

Admission Criteria

Prospective students must meet several requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Minimum 3.0 GPA in prerequisite courses
• Completion of prerequisite courses including anatomy, physiology, biology, and nutrition
• TEAS examination (commonly required)
• 2-3 academic and professional recommendations

Students can strengthen their applications through clinical experience from volunteer work or employment.

Cost Breakdown

California residents taking full-time studies (7+ units) pay approximately $3,689 per semester. The breakdown includes:

Students should budget for additional expenses such as textbooks, clinical supplies, uniforms, and transportation to clinical sites.

13. Chamberlain University ABSN Program

Chamberlain University offers a quick path to nursing through its BSN program. Students can finish their degree in just three years with year-round study. The program stands out among other accelerated BSN programs in California because it removes common barriers to entry.

Program Format

Students can start nursing courses right away since the curriculum needs no prerequisites. The program uses a mix of online learning for general education and nursing theory along with hands-on clinical experiences. Students practice their skills at the high-tech SIMCARE CENTER™ before working with real patients. Thanks to Chamberlain’s partnership with Ochsner Health, students get guaranteed clinical placements that provide ground experience throughout their studies.

Program Highlights

The program gives students several key benefits, starting with CCNE accreditation that ensures quality education. A 90% NCLEX pass rate in 2023 shows how well graduates are prepared. Third-year students can join the Nurse Technician Honors Program to build their clinical expertise. Students get strong support through the Center for Academic Success, tutoring services, and full NCLEX preparation resources. These features help graduates move smoothly into entry-level RN positions in healthcare settings of all types.

Admission Criteria

Chamberlain makes admission simple by:

• Skipping prerequisite courses
• Offering an online readiness test for virtual courses
• Using an efficient admissions portal

Each applicant needs to pass a background check, fingerprint screening, and drug test. Some criminal offenses might disqualify candidates. Automatic rejection applies to offenses like alcohol/drug violations, assault, fraud, theft, or disorderly conduct.

Cost Breakdown

Students can get financial aid through scholarships and tuition assistance if they qualify. The Tysons Corner campus gave out over $4 million in grants for BSN programs in 2023, making nursing education more available. This financial support helps students focus on their studies and clinical training without worrying about costs.

Choose Your California ABSN Program Today

Selecting the right ABSN program depends on several key factors. Location, format, cost, and admission requirements are the foundations of a good choice. This piece highlights 17 outstanding ABSN programs in California. Each program has its own advantages for aspiring nurses. Students can switch careers in just 12-24 months – that’s much faster than traditional paths.

Money is without doubt a significant part of your decision. Public institutions like CSU Fullerton charge around $23,000, while private universities such as Loma Linda cost over $100,000. But this is a big deal as it means that California’s average RN salary reaches $148,330 per year – nowhere near the national average.

Academic excellence matters just as much when you look at these programs. California’s ABSN options shine with their NCLEX pass rates. CSU Stanislaus boasts 98.68%, while CSU San Marcos achieves 96.97%. These numbers show how well-prepared their graduates are. Programs come in different formats too. You’ll find traditional classroom settings, hybrid approaches, and online coursework. This variety lets you pick what works best for your learning style.

The nursing field grows steadily. Experts project a 6% growth over the next decade. Your ABSN education isn’t just a career change – it’s a strategic move into a stable field with great long-term potential.

California’s ABSN pathways match your goals, schedule, and budget. Samuel Merritt offers an intensive 12-month program. Concordia features a hybrid learning option. CSU Fullerton provides a two-year approach. The experience might seem tough, but thousands of successful graduates prove that accelerated nursing education leads to a rewarding healthcare career