11 Best LVN to BSN Programs in California (2025 State-Approved List)

Ready to earn $49,080 more per year? California LVNs who become RNs through LVN to BSN programs see this average salary increase just by earning their BSN.

LVN to BSN programs are a great way to get a career boost without spending years in school. These programs provide an accelerated path to becoming an RN while earning the most employer-preferred nursing degree. Students can complete most LVN to BSN programs in California within 2-3 years. California pays its registered nurses generously with an average annual salary of $137,690, which exceeds the national average by over $40,000.

Qualified RNs just need to grow throughout the state. Programs like California State University-Fullerton’s LVN to BSN accept only 20 qualified applicants each year, which makes admission highly competitive. The rewards prove substantial as graduates earn median salaries of $86,042 two years after graduation and achieve impressive NCLEX-RN pass rates of 96.6%. We have compiled the 11 best state-approved LVN to BSN programs to help you take this vital career step.

1. Point Loma Nazarene University

Point Loma Nazarene University stands out as one of California’s premier nursing schools. This Christian private university combines healthcare expertise with a faith-based approach from its beautiful 90-acre campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Licensed vocational nurses will find a unique pathway here to advance their careers.

Program Overview

California-licensed vocational nurses with at least six months of clinical experience can benefit from Point Loma’s LVN to BSN program. The program creates a perfect balance between human and spiritual aspects of nursing while developing technical skills for patient care. Students receive over 1,100 clinical hours of hands-on training in a variety of healthcare settings before graduation. The School of Nursing’s (SON) accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) ensures high educational standards. San Diego employers actively seek the program’s graduates.

Admission Requirements

Point Loma’s LVN to BSN program requires:

• Current California LVN license
• Minimum six months of LVN clinical experience
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher in all college coursework
• Completion of all prerequisites with grades of “C” (2.0) or better

PLNU currently does not accept applications for the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 school years due to space-available admission policy. Students should keep an eye on the university’s website for future openings.

Tuition and Costs

Full-time students (12-17 units) at Point Loma will pay $23,750 per semester or $47,500 annually in tuition for the 2025-26 academic year. The nursing program includes an additional fee of $3,250 per semester ($6,500 annually). Students living on campus should plan for room costs ($4,200 per semester), board ($3,235 per semester for the mid-priced meal plan), and a general fee of $475 per semester. The total annual cost for residential nursing students reaches $63,410 before books and supplies.

NCLEX-RN Pass Rate

The class of 2023 achieved an impressive 98.3% NCLEX-RN pass rate. This is a big deal as it means that Point Loma students perform better than the national average. The program’s graduates are well-prepared and highly sought after in San Diego’s healthcare community.

2. National University

National University provides a complete pathway for licensed vocational nurses who want to advance their careers through their LVN to BSN bridge program in California. The nursing department received its original approval from the California Board of Registered Nursing in 2004 and maintains full accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Program Overview

The Department of Nursing at National University teaches students to deliver compassionate, patient-centered care in today’s healthcare environment. Students learn to become skilled at both the art and science of nursing through a curriculum that emphasizes cooperative work and new technologies. Students can participate in clinical judgments and evidence-based decision-making through community projects and academic-practice partnerships. National University has earned Silver status with Planetree, which shows their steadfast dedication to person-centered care. The program welcomes LVN students in cohorts that start four times a year (January, April, July, and October) with 40 seats in each cohort.

Admission Requirements

The LVN to BSN program requires applicants to:

• Be officially accepted as National University students
• Have a 2.75 cumulative GPA in general education and prerequisite courses
• Earn a “C” or higher in all prerequisite courses
• Pass a criminal background check and drug screening
• Complete all required immunizations

Students must attend a Pre-Nursing Forum within 12 months of application and take the TEAS Version VII exam. The admission process reviews candidates based on Science and Math GPA (40%), TEAS Score (40%), and an interview score (20%). The program selects only top candidates for interviews, which makes admission competitive.

Tuition and Costs

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Generic Entry program costs $94,742, which includes a $467 course material fee per course. Students pursuing a Second Bachelor’s BSN degree pay approximately $94,620 with a $534 course material fee per course. The LVN to BSN pathway has similar costs. These amounts represent direct program costs before any financial aid or scholarships.

NCLEX-RN Pass Rate

The NCLEX-RN examination is a vital step in the nurse licensure process. Pass rates show how many new nurses enter the profession. While specific pass rate data for National University isn’t included in the factual keypoints, graduates must pass this significant examination to practice as registered nurses in California.

3. Charles R. Drew University

Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in Los Angeles has created a unique LVN to BSN program that focuses on public health nursing. Healthcare professionals serving urban communities can advance their careers through this specially designed curriculum.

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing LVN-BSN Track at Charles R. Drew University prepares nurse generalists who take a comprehensive approach to patient care in complex environments. Students who complete the program can take the NCLEX-RN examination and get their Public Health Nurse (PHN) certification after obtaining RN licensure. This full-time program needs 99 credits and takes 3.5 years to complete. Students learn about health factors ranging from physiological and psychosocial to environmental and political. The program includes extensive clinical training in healthcare settings of all types, including Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, and Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles.

Admission Requirements

Qualified candidates must meet these requirements:

• A current, unrestricted California vocational nurse license
• Two years minimum LVN work experience
• 0 minimum cumulative and science GPA on a 4.0 scale
• One recommendation letter from a current/past nursing supervisor
• 75% overall score on the ATI TEAS Exam (and in each submodular area)
• A 2-3 page personal goal statement

Students from other countries need course-by-course evaluations from approved services like World Education Services or Josef Silny and Associates.

Tuition and Costs

Program tuition comes to about $117,600. Students can get financial help through various channels. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens doors to federal resources, California State Aid, and CDU Institutional Aid. Students with DACA status or undocumented students can submit a Dream Act Application. The university also provides need-based and merit-based financial aid among other work-study opportunities on campus.

NCLEX-RN Pass Rate

The university’s NCLEX-RN pass rates show some variation. Past results range from 100% to 45.95% across different reporting periods. First-time test takers have achieved impressive results, with one cohort reaching 100% and another hitting 95%. Potential students should ask about current NCLEX-RN pass rates during their application process to understand how well the program works.

4. California State University-San Marcos

CSU San Marcos offers aspiring LVNs a well-laid-out path to earn their BSN through their state-approved nursing program. The campus combines strong academics with natural beauty, just ten minutes from the Pacific Ocean.

Program Overview

The LVN to BSN pathway at CSUSM takes three years with six Fall/Spring semesters and needs 56 units of coursework for the nursing major. Students move through the program together in cohorts, taking daytime classes once per academic year. Clinical training rotates through San Diego and Riverside Counties, giving students hands-on experience. The nursing program has full accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approval from the California Board of Registered Nursing. Students can choose from several nursing paths including Traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN, RN-to-BSN, and MSN options.

Admission Requirements

LVN to BSN program applicants must meet these requirements:

• Have a current California LVN license
• Hold IV certification (due by May 1 for fall admission)
• Finish the Pre-Nursing Core with a 2.75 overall GPA
• Show no more than two C grades in Pre-Nursing Core science requirements
• Keep a minimum 2.0 overall college/university GPA
• Pass the LVN Nursing Skills Assessment

Competition runs high as the university accepts only four LVN-to-BSN students each fall.

Tuition and Costs

Students pay standard CSU state-supported tuition fees. They should plan for one-time upfront costs of $200 or more, plus first-semester nursing textbooks and ATI materials. A $175 lab fee starts in the third semester, along with a one-time $100 Clinical Experience Tracking Fee. California residents pay annual tuition of about $5,742, while out-of-state students face higher rates at $15,246 yearly.

NCLEX-RN Pass Rate

CSU San Marcos shows outstanding NCLEX-RN pass rates between 95-97.66%. This strong performance earned the program 12th place among California nursing programs. BSN graduates have managed to keep a 96% NCLEX pass rate in the last decade.

5. San Diego State University

San Diego State University’s School of Nursing connects students with over 100 community partners across San Diego and Imperial Valley Counties. This provides a practical pathway for LVNs who want to earn their BSN degrees.

Program Overview

SDSU offers an accelerated RN to BS program that LVNs with non-nursing bachelor’s degrees can complete in just 1-2 semesters. Students can take classes through Open University while enrolled in their ADN program. The program uses a hybrid format that combines online courses with clinical experiences. SDSU’s curriculum goes beyond traditional nursing education by building partnerships with regional hospitals, clinics, and healthcare agencies. Students can choose from several nursing programs including Traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN, and RN-to-BSN options.

Admission Requirements

SDSU’s LVN to BSN pathway requires:

• An Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) from a regionally accredited program
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
• Prerequisite courses completed with minimum grade of C:
  • Human Anatomy with Lab (4 units)
  • Human Physiology with Lab (4 units)
  • Microbiology with Lab (4 units)
  • Chemistry

New applicants must submit their applications through Cal State Apply from October through December.

Tuition and Costs

California residents pay approximately $8,290 per academic year in basic tuition. Current LVNs pay $319 per unit when taking courses through Open University. Non-resident tuition costs an additional $444 per unit for out-of-state and international students. Students typically spend between $7,500-$12,000 on the complete RN to BS program, including general education courses.

NCLEX-RN Pass Rate

SDSU graduates show excellent preparation with an NCLEX-RN pass rate of 95.7% averaged over three years. Traditional BSN students have achieved an even more impressive 96% first-time pass rate in the last six years. These high pass rates demonstrate the program’s strength in preparing students for successful nursing careers.

6. Azusa Pacific University

Azusa Pacific University combines faith and nursing education in its BS in Nursing LVN to BSN program across California locations. The program helps vocational nurses develop advanced skills needed in modern healthcare through a Christ-centered curriculum.

Program Overview

APU structures its LVN to BSN program around student cohorts that move through the curriculum together. Students need 72 units of nursing coursework and 120 total units to graduate. The program features practical clinical training and cutting-edge technology with simulators and virtual patients. Students can attend regional campuses in High Desert, Inland Empire, and Monrovia. The nursing coursework begins in fall, spring, or summer terms after completing prerequisites, and students attend three consecutive semesters each year.

Admission Requirements

Prospective students must meet these requirements:

• Complete an application with $45 nonrefundable fee
• Submit official transcripts from previous schools
• Have a 3.0 cumulative GPA minimum (lower GPAs may receive provisional admission)
• Complete 48 prerequisite units
• Provide two professional recommendations and a one-page statement of professional goals
• Achieve at least a B- (2.7) GPA in science prerequisites
• Possess a current LVN license

Students must pay a $500 nonrefundable deposit after acceptance to reserve their cohort spot.

Tuition and Costs

Each unit costs $835, bringing the program total to approximately $60,120. Students pay additional fees including $600 per semester for nursing clinical coverage (includes malpractice insurance), $100 for graduation, and potential prior learning assessment charges. Students should plan for about $27,528 in living expenses over eight months during 2025-26.

NCLEX-RN Pass Rate

The university maintains an 80% NCLEX exam pass rate. Pass rates varied between 80.16% and 86.92% from 2019-2023. An independent source shows a 95% first-time pass rate.

7. Loma Linda University

Founded in 1905, Loma Linda University runs a faith-centered LVN to BSN bridge program that combines compassionate care with clinical excellence. This Seventh-day Adventist institution’s distinctive approach focuses on whole-person education and rigorous nursing training.

Program Overview

Loma Linda’s LVN to BSN program features an impressive 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio to ensure each student gets personal attention. Students spend 570 clinical hours at a Level 1 Trauma Center ICU, which gives them unmatched hands-on experience. The program houses America’s largest medical simulation center. Students learn technical skills while developing spiritually, which prepares them to deliver compassionate care in healthcare settings of all types. More than 1,500 School of Nursing alumni now serve communities across the nation.

Admission Requirements

Prospective students must meet these requirements:

• Maintain a minimum college cumulative and prerequisite GPA of 3.0
• Complete all prerequisites with grades of “C” or better
• Submit an application with personal statement
• Provide official transcripts from all college credits
• Complete pre-entrance exams (TEAS & Critical Thinking)
• Submit three letters of recommendation (2 from instructors)
• Demonstrate completion of high school or equivalent

Required prerequisites include college algebra/statistics, anatomy and physiology with labs, chemistry, microbiology, nutrition, and various humanities courses.

Tuition and Costs

Domestic students pay $660 per unit. International students must make an additional $8,000 deposit that applies to their final quarter’s expenses. Students become eligible for scholarships after completing one full quarter, with awards ranging from $500-$3,000. The university recognizes academic excellence through several merit-based awards, including the Lucile Lewis Award for outstanding junior students and the President’s Award for superior scholastic achievement.

NCLEX-RN Pass Rate

Loma Linda University students achieved an impressive 98% first-time pass rate on the new Next Generation NCLEX examination. This is a big deal as it means that the pass rate surpasses national averages, showing how well the program prepares students for their nursing careers. These consistent results highlight the program’s quality instruction and practical training methods.

8. Stanislaus State

Stanislaus State’s nursing program stands out as one of California’s top choices for LVNs pursuing bachelor’s degrees. The School of Nursing ranks 26th among California’s best nursing schools and 51st in the Western United States. Students value both its quality education and affordable costs.

Program Overview

Qualified LVNs can enter directly into the third semester of Stanislaus State’s nursing program after they complete their prerequisite coursework. The BSN degree takes four more semesters to complete. Graduates receive Public Health Nurse Certification, which lets them work in public health settings. Students gain extensive hands-on experience through 810 clinical hours. The curriculum builds expertise in professionalism, leadership, management, wellness, research, and community nursing—skills that set BSN-prepared nurses apart.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must meet these requirements:

• Overall GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Science GPA of 3.0 (anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry)
• Non-science GPA of 3.0 (English, speech, critical thinking, statistics)
• TEAS test score of at least 70%

Students can repeat science and non-science prerequisites only once. The program accepts applications every August. Admission points come from GPA, TEAS scores, and extra points for Stan State prerequisites, healthcare experience, bilingual skills, and living in the university’s service area.

Tuition and Costs

The four-year program costs about $22,000, though yearly rates might change. Students should budget for:

• Textbooks: $100-500 each semester
• Course fees: $9-150 per semester
• Uniforms, shoes, stethoscope, and clinical transportation

Students can get federal loans up to $12,500 yearly based on eligibility, plus scholarships and various grants.

NCLEX-RN Pass Rate

Stanislaus State shines with its NCLEX-RN pass rate of 95-100%. First-time test takers consistently score between 95-100%, showing how well the program prepares its graduates. These outstanding results helped the School of Nursing rank 2nd in California according to some sources.

9. West Coast University

West Coast University has multiple California campuses featuring state-of-the-art LEED buildings and simulation centers. LVNs can pursue their BSN degrees at locations in Los Angeles, Orange County, and Ontario, making it easy to find a campus in Southern California.

Program Overview

The LVN to BSN bridge program at West Coast lets you earn your degree in just 34 months with an accelerated schedule. Your previous experience counts too – you’ll receive 9 units of advanced placement credit toward your BSN degree. Students must complete 46 credits to graduate, with classes running in 10-week terms that start throughout the year. The WCU-Miami campus gives students with busy schedules more options. You can choose an Evening and Weekend pace (39 months) or a Working Professional pace (49 months). The university puts students first by using innovative learning tools that include original TV shows, educational games, and virtual reality resources.

Admission Requirements

The LVN to BSN program requires applicants to:

• Submit a completed WCU application
• Provide documentation of high school graduation or equivalent
• Participate in an admissions interview
• Achieve a HESI composite score of 76 or higher (scores must be within three years of enrollment)
• Submit official transcripts from all previous institutions
• Provide proof of current unobstructed LVN licensure

Students who don’t meet the HESI score requirement can use a TEAS score of 52 or higher (for students starting Fall 2025) or SAT/ACT scores (835 or 16, respectively).

Tuition and Costs

Students starting Fall II 2024 will pay $120,000 for the full-time program. The cost increases to $146,000 for those starting Fall I 2024. Other costs include:

• Registration fee: $75
• Estimated book costs: $5,262
• Book shipping: $526
• Uniforms: $250
• Supplies and licensure preparation: $2,345
• Technology fee: $800 ($100 per semester)
• Core nursing fee: $26,000

The total program cost comes to about $155,758.

NCLEX-RN Pass Rate

WCU graduates show excellent preparation for licensure. The university’s NCLEX-RN pass rates range from 80.58% to 92% over the years. A quarterly report showed that WCU’s California campuses achieved an 89.5% pass rate, which was five percentage points above the state average. WCU graduates from all campuses have achieved a 91% first-time pass rate on the NCLEX examination.

10. Unitek College

Unitek College operates campuses in Bakersfield, Concord, Fremont, Hayward, Sacramento, San Jose, and South San Francisco. The college offers BSN programs available to working healthcare professionals in California.

Program Overview

Licensed Vocational Nurses with an associate degree can advance their education through Unitek’s LVN to BSN bridge program. Students can skip the first three semesters of traditional nursing programs because of Advanced Placement and complete their BSN degree in approximately two years. The program combines hands-on clinical training with detailed theoretical coursework. Students receive dedicated faculty support and career coaching services that encourage professional development. The program prepares graduates to take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam and pursue supervisory positions in healthcare settings.

Admission Requirements

Unitek’s LVN to BSN bridge program in California requires applicants to:

• Be 17 years or older (17-year-olds need parent/guardian co-signature)
• Show proof of completed 12th-grade education (high school diploma, GED, or equivalent)
• Have valid identification and social security number
• Pass required entrance exams

Candidates must wait one full year to reapply after four failed entrance exam attempts. Students need to participate in both lecture and lab components to pass. Missing either component leads to course failure or program dismissal.

Tuition and Costs

Unitek’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program costs between $95,000 and $125,000 in total tuition. A non-refundable application fee of about $75 is required upfront. Additional expenses include:

• Books and supplies: $1,000-$3,000 for the program duration
• Uniforms and equipment (stethoscopes, scrubs)
• Living costs based on campus location

NCLEX-RN Pass Rate

Unitek College maintains strong NCLEX-RN pass rates at its campuses. The BSN program showed an 84.11% pass rate during one reporting period. Recent vocational nursing program results prove impressive – Concord campus achieved 91%, Hayward 92%, and Sacramento 89%.

11. California State University-East Bay

Cal State East Bay runs one of the most available LVN to BSN programs in California. Students can upgrade their credentials through a well-laid-out pathway. The program combines challenging academics with hands-on training at their San Francisco Bay Area campus to help healthcare professionals advance their careers.

Program Overview

The university’s Pre-Licensure program features an LVN-BSN pathway that builds on vocational nurses’ existing knowledge. Students can complete this full-time, daytime program in two and a half years or five terms. Classes happen either in-person or through a hybrid format. Clinical courses take place at local hospitals and community partner organizations. Students also work with local neighborhoods through community involvement courses. Graduates become ready for the NCLEX-RN examination and can qualify for California Public Health Nursing certification.

Admission Requirements

The program at Cal State East Bay is highly competitive. Priority goes to:

• Cal State East Bay full-time students who have attended at least two semesters
• Local transfer students from six counties (Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano)
• Military members or veterans with honorable discharge

Students need a minimum 3.0 prerequisite GPA, but a 3.6-4.0 GPA makes applications more competitive. The TEAS exam needs at least a 70% overall score with 65% or higher in English and Reading subsections. Students must pass all eight prerequisites with ‘C’ grades or better. Science prerequisites should be completed within seven years of applying.

Tuition and Costs

California residents pay annual tuition of about $8,613, while out-of-state students pay much more at around $15,741. Housing costs near the Hayward campus vary. One-bedroom apartments cost between $1,795-$2,100 monthly. Two-bedroom apartments range from $2,095-$3,000. Cal State East Bay’s website has a Net Price Calculator that helps students figure out their financial aid eligibility.

NCLEX-RN Pass Rate

Cal State East Bay BSN graduates have shown excellent performance in licensure examinations. NCLEX-RN pass rates have ranged from 80.62% to 94.62% in recent reports. The traditional BSN program managed to keep an impressive 89% pass rate with 100-125 graduates each year in the last decade. These strong results show how well the program prepares students for their nursing careers.

Start Your LVN to BSN Journey Today

Your nursing career can take a big leap forward with the right LVN to BSN program. California nurses who make this switch from LVN to RN positions boost their yearly income by $49,080. This piece shows you several paths to get your BSN.

Each program comes with its own strengths. Point Loma offers a faith-based education with 1,100+ clinical hours. National University gives you flexibility with four yearly cohort starts. You’ll find options that line up with your priorities.

Most schools look for a strong GPA of 3.0 or higher, completed prerequisites, and good entrance exam scores. The cost varies quite a bit. Public universities like CSU San Marcos charge around $5,742 per year, while private schools such as Azusa Pacific can cost over $60,000.

NCLEX-RN pass rates are a vital quality indicator. Many of these schools have impressive success rates of 90-100%. These numbers show how well students are prepared for real-world nursing.

California pays its registered nurses well. The average yearly salary hits $137,690—that’s $40,000 more than the national average. This is a big deal as it means that qualified RNs are in high demand across the state.

The path to becoming an RN takes work and resources, but the rewards make it worth it. You’ll gain deeper clinical knowledge, do more advanced work, and earn much more money. These benefits make this career move smart and practical.

You’ve seen what these approved programs offer. Take time to find the one that fits your career goals, schedule, and budget. A solid plan and commitment will help you join California’s well-paid registered nurses in just a few years.

Understanding Financial Aid and Scholarships

Money matters when it comes to BSN education. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing Scholarship Program can give you up to $10,000 if you work in underserved communities for 12 months. UCLA’s Center for Scholarships helps students find funding through workshops and personal counseling. Health Resources and Services Administration scholarships are available too. These cover your tuition, fees, and give you monthly stipends.

Planning for the NCLEX and Licensure Process

Your next step after graduation is getting your license. Submit your NCLEX exam application approximately two weeks before you finish your program. You’ll need fingerprints – Live Scan works best, but Fingerprint Cards are fine too. The whole process costs around $575-590: $300 for the online application, $75-90 for fingerprinting, and $200 for NCLEX registration. Keep track of your application through your BreEZe account or the Application Status portal.

Find Your Ideal BSN School Today

Your path to a rewarding nursing career in California starts with picking the right BSN program. This piece has shown you many accredited programs throughout the state, each with its own strengths and opportunities. The Golden State employs more nurses than any other state with impressive average salaries reaching $137,690 annually. This makes your investment in education even more worthwhile.

Getting into these programs takes careful preparation. You’ll need strong grades, good TEAS scores, and completed prerequisites to stand out among other applicants. The variety of program formats – traditional four-year, accelerated, online, or hybrid – lets you choose a path that lines up with your life situation and career goals.

NCLEX-RN pass rates, graduation statistics, and post-graduation earnings are vital metrics to help you decide. Schools like UCLA, CSU Sacramento, and University of San Francisco show exceptional results through their challenging curricula and hands-on clinical experiences.

Once you’ve chosen your ideal program, you’ll need to prepare your application, plan your finances, and understand the steps to get licensed. Many schools offer substantial scholarships for nursing students who plan to serve vulnerable communities after graduation.

The nursing field continues to grow, with projected growth of 11% over the next decade. A BSN degree from an accredited California institution will give you both clinical expertise and job security. These foundations prepare you for immediate employment and open doors to specialized roles or graduate education as your career grows.