10 Best RN to BSN Programs in California for 2024

Nurse Researcher’s California RN to BSN Review

In California, 324,400 Registered Nurses (RNs) are currently employed, earning an average salary of $124,000 per year. The healthcare industry is rapidly growing, with a projected need for 21,200 new RNs each year. For RNs holding an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN), there are 29 accredited RN-to-BSN programs available in the state.

Transitioning to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is becoming increasingly important, as employers are showing a strong preference for BSN-educated nurses. This preference is attributed to their broader skill set, advanced training, and association with better patient outcomes. The move from an ADN to a BSN not only offers personal career advancement and higher earning potential but also meets California’s escalating demand for qualified nursing professionals.

10 Best RN to BSN Programs in California

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See our Ranking Methodology

Admissions Requirements RN to BSN Programs

Embarking on your journey through an RN to BSN program in California requires thorough preparation. As you set your sights on these advanced programs, you’ll need to meet several admission requirements. These are designed to ensure that all incoming students have the foundational knowledge and qualifications necessary for success in their BSN studies. Here are the core requirements for admission into RN to BSN programs in California:

• Active RN License: You must hold a current and unencumbered Registered Nurse license in California. The license validates your foundational nursing education and practical experience.
• Diploma or Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): All RN to BSN programs require a diploma or an ADN as a prerequisite. This affirms your foundational knowledge in nursing.
• Official Transcripts: You will need to submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. Transcripts provide evidence of your academic history and performance.
• Valid RN License: Provide evidence of a valid, unrestricted Registered Nurse (RN) license in the state of California.
• Minimum GPA: Many programs require a minimum GPA, usually around 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale, in your prior nursing education. This requirement demonstrates your academic ability to succeed in the program.
• Prerequisite Courses: Depending on the program, you may need to complete certain prerequisite courses before admission, such as microbiology, anatomy, or statistics. These courses provide necessary foundational knowledge for BSN coursework.
• Letters of Recommendation: Some programs may ask for letters of recommendation from previous instructors, employers, or professional colleagues. These letters offer insight into your work ethic, character, and potential for success in the program.
• Personal Statement or Essay: A personal statement or essay gives you the chance to express your career goals, reasons for seeking a BSN degree, and why you’re a good fit for the program.
• Criminal Background Check: Pass a criminal background check as required by clinical affiliates.
• Proof of Work Eligibility: Provide evidence of the right to work in the United States.
• Filling out the FAFSA (Optional, but highly recommended): Although not a formal admission requirement, filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial step to explore financial aid options for your BSN program. Starting this process early can help ensure you have your financial plan in place when it’s time to enroll.

Note that admission requirements may vary slightly from program to program. Always check with the specific institution for the most accurate and up-to-date admission criteria. As you compile these materials and navigate the application process, you are taking a crucial step toward elevating your career with an RN to BSN degree in California.

10 Benefits of Earning an RN to BSN in California

Earning an RN to BSN degree in California offers a multitude of benefits that can positively impact your nursing career. Here are ten key advantages of pursuing an RN to BSN program in California:

1. Enhanced Knowledge and Skills: BSN programs offer a broader curriculum that enhances your knowledge in areas like research, leadership, community health, and healthcare policy. This advanced training equips you with a more comprehensive set of nursing skills.
2. Increased Salary Potential: On average, BSN-prepared nurses tend to earn higher salaries than RNs with an associate degree or diploma. This increase can significantly impact your lifetime earning potential.
3. Greater Job Opportunities: With a BSN, you can access a wider range of nursing roles, including leadership, management, and specialty positions that may be inaccessible to RNs without a bachelor’s degree.
4. Higher Job Security: As the healthcare industry moves towards favoring BSN-prepared nurses, job security for RNs holding a BSN is likely to improve.
5. Improved Patient Care: Studies have linked BSN education with better patient outcomes, including lower mortality rates and reduced medication errors. By earning your BSN, you contribute to safer and higher quality patient care.
6. Pathway to Advanced Practice: A BSN is typically a prerequisite for graduate nursing programs. If you aspire to become a nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, nurse anesthetist, or nurse educator, earning your BSN is a critical step.
7. Professional Respect: Holding a BSN often brings greater respect from peers, superiors, and patients, as it signals your commitment to your profession and your expertise.
8. Adaptability in a Changing Field: The additional knowledge and skills acquired in a BSN program can help you adapt to the rapidly evolving field of healthcare, including advancements in technology, changes in healthcare policy, and emerging health issues.
9. Community Health Impact: BSN programs emphasize community and public health, preparing you to make a broader impact on population health and health disparities.
10. Personal Growth and Satisfaction: Beyond the professional benefits, earning your BSN can bring a sense of personal accomplishment and satisfaction, enhancing your confidence and passion for your work.

Classes & Courses for RN to BSN Programs

As you venture into RN to BSN Programs in California, you’ll encounter a wide range of courses designed to broaden your knowledge and hone your nursing skills. These classes build upon your foundational nursing education, further equipping you to provide high-quality patient care and assume leadership roles. Here are some typical courses you’ll take:

• Advanced Health Assessment: This course trains nurses in comprehensive physical, psychosocial, and cultural assessments. You’ll learn to integrate health history, physical examination, and diagnostic reasoning skills across the lifespan.
• Public Health Nursing: Here, you’ll explore the principles and practices of public health, community assessment, disease prevention, and health promotion. This course equips nurses to work effectively in community-based settings and improve population health.
• Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice: You’ll learn to evaluate and apply research findings to nursing practice. The course focuses on scientific inquiry, research methods, and statistical analysis, empowering you to deliver evidence-based patient care.
• Nursing Leadership and Management: This course prepares you to assume leadership and management roles. Topics include leadership theory, organizational behavior, change management, and healthcare policy.
• Pathophysiology: This course provides an in-depth understanding of disease processes, enabling you to better manage patient care. You’ll delve into the physiological changes that diseases cause in the human body.
• Nursing Informatics: Here, you’ll learn to use information technology to enhance patient care. Topics include electronic health records, patient privacy, and digital communication.
• Ethics in Nursing: This course addresses ethical dilemmas in healthcare. You’ll study ethical theories and principles, and learn to make decisions that respect patient rights and values.
• Geriatric Nursing: As our population ages, the demand for geriatric care is growing. This course equips nurses to meet the unique health needs of older adults.
• Healthcare Policy: This course covers health policy development, political advocacy, and policy impacts on healthcare quality and cost. You’ll learn to advocate for policies that promote health equity and quality care.

Each course in this intensive RN to BSN program serves as a stepping stone, a bridge from where the RN stands today to the accomplished BSN they aim to become tomorrow. It’s a challenge, but one that pays dividends in the form of greater career opportunities, higher earning potential, and a profound sense of achievement.

Online RN to BSN Programs in California

The path to an RN to BSN degree in California is an exciting journey, but it requires a thoughtful process and careful planning. From understanding the admission timeline to estimating the time to completion, here’s what you need to know about RN to BSN Programs in California.

Admission Process and Timeline

The admission process typically involves several steps, which you can plan for to ensure a smooth application experience:

1. Confirm Admission Requirements: Check the specific prerequisites of your desired program. This often includes having an active RN license, an associate degree or nursing diploma, and possibly fulfilling certain academic standards or completing prerequisite courses.
2. Gather Your Materials: Compile necessary documents such as transcripts, proof of licensure, letters of recommendation, and any required essays or personal statements.
3. Submit Your Application: Most programs allow online applications. Ensure you submit all components before the deadline.
4. Transcript Evaluation: Colleges assess transcripts from previous institutions to ensure that all prerequisite coursework has been completed.
5. License Verification: A valid and unencumbered California RN license is verified.
6. Letters of Recommendation: Most institutions require two to three professional references, serving as testament to your commitment and capabilities.
7. Personal Statement: This essay is your chance to articulate your professional goals, your passion for nursing, and why you’re seeking to advance your education.
8. Financial Aid: Don’t forget about funding. Consider applying for scholarships, grants, and loans to help cover tuition costs. As an optional step, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if you qualify for federal financial aid.

The timeline for these steps can vary. Generally, you should start preparing your application materials a few months before the deadline. Deadlines themselves can range widely depending on the school and whether the program offers multiple start dates throughout the year.

Program Length and Time to Completion

Once admitted, the length of RN to BSN Programs in California can depend on several factors:

• Course Load: If you’re attending full-time, you might complete your program in as little as one year. Part-time students often finish in two to three years, but this can vary depending on how many courses you take each term.
• Program Structure: Some programs offer a traditional semester structure, while others might use an accelerated format with shorter, more intensive terms.
• Transfer Credits: If you have relevant previous college coursework, some programs might allow you to transfer these credits, potentially reducing the time to degree completion.
• Full-Time vs. Part-Time: Full-time students can typically complete the program in 1-2 years, while part-time students might take 2-4 years. The choice between full and part-time depends largely on personal and professional obligations.

Remember, every student’s journey is unique. Balancing work, family commitments, and school is an important part of planning your RN to BSN education. Whatever your path, earning a BSN in California can open new opportunities and elevate your nursing career.

Tuition and Cost of Attendance

Pursuing an RN to BSN degree program in California is a significant investment, both in time and finances. The costs associated with this transformational journey can vary dramatically across institutions in California, contingent on multiple factors.

Tuition forms the largest portion of expenses for an RN to BSN degree. As of my knowledge cut-off in 2021, the cost per unit typically ranged from $300 to $700. With most RN to BSN programs requiring around 30-40 units, total tuition costs could range from $9,000 to $28,000, or even higher.

It’s crucial to bear in mind that tuition isn’t the only cost to consider. Additional expenses can add significantly to the cost of attendance and may include:

• Books and Supplies: This could range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per year, depending on the courses and the use of digital or second-hand textbooks.
• Technology Fees: Online programs often charge technology fees to support their virtual learning platforms. These fees could range from $50 to $200 per semester.
• Health Insurance: Many schools require students to carry health insurance, which could add another substantial amount to your budget.
• Living Expenses: If you’re planning to relocate for your BSN program, or if you’re currently not working, you’ll need to factor in living expenses such as housing, food, and transportation.

While the costs might seem daunting, remember that financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement programs can help offset these expenses. Researching and applying for such opportunities should be an integral part of your transition from RN to BSN.

Please note that these figures are estimates and costs can vary greatly between institutions and over time. Prospective students should always consult with specific institutions for the most current and accurate cost information.

Salary Increases for BSN Degree Holders

One of the key motivators for registered nurses (RNs) to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is the potential for increased earnings. The short answer to the question, “Will earning an RN to BSN increase my salary?” is yes, it can.

On average, nurses with a BSN degree tend to earn higher salaries than those with an associate degree or diploma in nursing. This can be attributed to a few factors:

• Expanded Opportunities: BSN-prepared nurses often have access to a wider range of job opportunities, including leadership roles, specialty areas, and advanced practice roles. These positions generally come with higher salaries.
• Higher Skill Level: The BSN curriculum covers more advanced and varied nursing topics, equipping nurses with skills that are in high demand. Employers often recognize this by offering higher salaries to BSN-prepared nurses.
• Industry Preference: The healthcare industry increasingly favors BSN-prepared nurses. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) and the Institute of Medicine (IOM) advocate for a higher proportion of nurses to hold a BSN due to improved patient outcomes associated with higher education.

However, it’s important to note that the exact increase in salary can vary based on factors such as geographic location, years of experience, area of specialty, and the specific healthcare setting. It’s also crucial to remember that pursuing a BSN involves costs, such as tuition and potentially reduced working hours, which should be factored into the financial equation.

Completing RN to BSN Program in California is not just about immediate salary increments. It’s an investment in your long-term career growth, increasing your job security, offering opportunities for professional advancement, and equipping you with skills to deliver superior patient care.

More RN to BSN Programs in California

In California, there are various options available for nurses seeking to earn their BSN degree. The following table showcases a selection of RN to BSN programs in California, highlighting their program names, locations, online availability, campus/hybrid options, and accreditation status.

These programs offer nurses the opportunity to further their education and advance their nursing practice. It’s important to note that the accreditation listed is provided by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Prospective students should always verify accreditation and program details directly with the institutions. Pursuing one of these RN to BSN programs in California can pave the way for expanded career options and professional growth.

University	Offered as	City/State
Mount St Mary’s University-Los Angeles	Campus	Los Angeles, CA
California Baptist University	Campus, Online	Riverside, CA
National University	Campus, Hybrid, Online	La Jolla, CA
California State University-Bakersfield	Campus, Hybrid	Bakersfield, CA
San Diego State University	Campus	San Diego, CA
California State University-Stanislaus	Campus, Online	Turlock, CA
The Valley Foundation School of Nursing at San Jose State University	Campus, Online	San Jose, CA
California State University-San Bernardino	Campus	San Bernardino, CA
Vanguard University of Southern California	Campus	Costa Mesa, CA
California State University-Chico	Campus, Online	Chico, CA
Brandman University	Campus, Hybrid, Online	Irvine, CA
California State University-Dominguez Hills	Campus, Hybrid, Online	Carson, CA
California State University-San Marcos	Campus, Hybrid, Online	San Marcos, CA
California State University-Fresno	Campus, Online	Fresno, CA
Point Loma Nazarene University	Campus	San Diego, CA
California State University-East Bay	Campus	Hayward, CA
Simpson University	Campus	Redding, CA
California State University-Long Beach	Campus	Long Beach, CA
California State University-Channel Islands	Campus	Camarillo, CA
California State University-Los Angeles	Campus	Los Angeles, CA
Stanbridge University	Campus, Online	Irvine, CA
California State University-Northridge	Campus	Northridge, CA
United States University	Campus, Hybrid, Online	San Diego, CA
California State University-Sacramento	Campus	Sacramento, CA
Unitek College	Campus, Online	Fremont, CA
Fresno Pacific University	Campus, Hybrid	Fresno, CA
Grossmont College	Campus	El Cajon, CA
Holy Names University	Campus	Oakland, CA

Financial Help to an RN to BSN in California

Securing funds for an RN to BSN degree in California can feel daunting. Fortunately, a multitude of options exist to assist aspiring students in their quest to finance their education. With diligent research and preparation, a BSN degree can become a feasible goal.

• Federal Financial Aid: Many students qualify for federal financial aid, which includes grants (that don’t have to be repaid) and low-interest student loans. To apply, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• State Aid: The State of California offers its own financial aid programs. The Cal Grant, for instance, provides funds to students attending qualifying institutions in California.
• Scholarships: Numerous scholarships are available for nursing students, awarded by universities, nonprofit organizations, corporations, and professional associations. These may be based on academic achievement, financial need, community service, or field of interest.
• Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Some employers offer tuition reimbursement programs as a benefit to their employees. Check with your Human Resources department to see if this is an option.
• Work-Study Programs: These federally and sometimes state-supported programs allow students to earn money for their education while gaining valuable experience working in a related field.
• Loan Forgiveness Programs: Certain loan forgiveness programs, like the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program or the Nurse Corps Loan Repayment Program, can forgive a portion or all of your student loans if you work in qualifying public service jobs or underserved areas.
• Military Benefits: If you’re a veteran or currently serving, you may be eligible for educational benefits through the GI Bill.
• Payment Plans: Some universities offer payment plans that allow you to spread the cost of your tuition over a period of time, rather than paying in one lump sum.

Each funding option comes with its own set of criteria and application process. By exploring all available avenues, prospective RN to BSN students in California can find a financial pathway that brings them closer to their educational goals.

Scholarships for RN to BSN Nursing Students

Pursuing an RN to BSN degree is a significant investment in your future, and financial aid can play a crucial role in making your educational goals attainable. Scholarships specifically designed for nursing students can help offset costs and minimize student loan debt. Below, we’ve highlighted five scholarships to consider. Each offers a unique opportunity for financial assistance, and all are worth exploring as you plan your path through an RN to BSN program.

1. AfterCollege/AACN Scholarship Fund

Managed by AfterCollege, in partnership with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), this scholarship fund targets students who are seeking a baccalaureate, master’s or doctoral degree in nursing, including RN to BSN students.

• Deadline Month: March, June, September, December
• Award Amount: $2,500
• Website: www.aftercollege.com

2. Foundation of the National Student Nurses’ Association (FNSNA) Scholarships

The FNSNA offers a multitude of scholarships to undergraduate nursing students, including those pursuing an RN to BSN. These scholarships reward academic excellence and financial need.

• Deadline Month: January
• Award Amount: $1,000 – $7,500
• Website: www.forevernursing.org

3. Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. (NEF) Scholarships

NEF provides scholarships to nurses seeking advanced degrees, including RNs pursuing a BSN. They focus on nurses demonstrating potential for leadership and a commitment to the nursing profession.

• Deadline Month: February
• Award Amount: Varies
• Website: www.n-e-f.org

4. California Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee (CNA/NNOC) Scholarship

Specifically for California nurses, CNA/NNOC scholarships support RNs in California who are advancing their education, including those seeking a BSN.

• Deadline Month: Varies
• Award Amount: Varies
• Website: www.nationalnursesunited.org

5. Hurst Review Services/AACN Nursing Scholarship

In collaboration with AACN, Hurst Review Services offers scholarships to pre-licensure students in a baccalaureate, master’s or doctoral degree program, inclusive of RN to BSN students.

• Deadline Month: January, July
• Award Amount: $2,500
• Website: www.hurstreview.com

6. American Assembly for Men in Nursing (AAMN) Scholarships The AAMN offers several scholarships to support men pursuing professional nursing education.

• Deadline Month: Typically in July
• Award Amount: Varies
• Website: www.aamn.org

7. The Promise of Nursing Regional Faculty Fellowship This scholarship provides funding for graduate education to prepare faculty to teach in a nursing program. It’s perfect for RN to BSN students considering a future in nursing education.

• Deadline Month: Typically in March
• Award Amount: $1,000 to $7,500
• Website: www.discovernursing.com

Finally, don’t overlook the importance of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is a key component in securing federal financial aid and is often required for various scholarship applications, both private and public. By submitting the FAFSA, you open the door to potential grants, work-study programs, and loans, giving you a broad range of options to fund your RN to BSN degree.

Status for 80 Percent BSN Initiative in California

In a bid to elevate the quality of healthcare, the Institute of Medicine (now renamed the National Academy of Medicine) set forth a groundbreaking recommendation in their 2010 report, “The Future of Nursing”: increase the proportion of working nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree to 80 percent by 2020.

California, always a frontrunner in healthcare trends, has embraced this vision, promoting advanced education for nurses throughout the state. While the 2020 mark may have proven ambitious, the ongoing momentum towards this target is undeniable and continues to shape the landscape of nursing education and practice.

Healthcare institutions across California are progressively recognizing the value of BSN-prepared nurses. They’ve been linking BSN education with improved patient outcomes, lower mortality rates, and fewer medication errors. Consequently, many are expressing a preference for BSN-prepared nurses during hiring.

Simultaneously, nursing schools across the state have been expanding their RN to BSN programs, facilitating greater accessibility for RNs to pursue advanced degrees. California’s community colleges and universities have also partnered in numerous ADN-to-BSN collaborative programs, providing seamless transition pathways for aspiring BSN nurses.

While California’s march towards the 80 percent BSN initiative is still in progress, the state’s commitment to this cause is resolute. Each stride taken on this path not only amplifies the potential of individual nurses but also strengthens the backbone of California’s healthcare system.

RN to BSN Resources for Nurses

As an RN pursuing a BSN degree in California, you have a wealth of resources at your fingertips to support your educational and professional journey.

Whether you’re looking for information on RN to BSN programs, professional associations, scholarships, or career development opportunities, these resources are tailored specifically for RN to BSN nurses in California.

From exploring RN to BSN programs in your state to accessing scholarships and professional organizations, these resources are designed to empower you in your pursuit of a BSN degree and enhance your nursing career.

• RN to BSN Programs in Your State: This comprehensive guide provides details on RN to BSN programs across the country, helping you compare and choose the right program for your needs.
• California Board of Registered Nursing: As the governing body for nurses in California, the Board provides valuable resources on licensure, continuing education, and state-specific nursing regulations.
• California Nurses Association: This professional organization offers a wide range of resources, including career development, continuing education, advocacy, and networking opportunities for nurses in California.
• California Student Nurses Association: Aimed at nursing students, this association provides information on scholarships, internships, networking, and leadership opportunities.
• California School Nurse Organization: If you’re interested in school nursing, this organization offers resources, professional development, and networking opportunities specific to this specialty.
• American Nurses Association\California: The California branch of the ANA provides resources on ethics, practice, advocacy, and professional development for nurses in the state.
• The Association of California Nurse Leaders: For those interested in leadership roles, this organization offers resources on leadership development, research, mentorship, and networking.
• California Association of Nurse Practitioners: If you’re considering advancing to a Nurse Practitioner role, this association provides resources on practice, education, advocacy, and events.

Best Ranked RN to BSN Programs in Your State

Elevate your nursing career with our curated list of the best RN to BSN programs in each state. Transitioning from a Registered Nurse (RN) to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) opens doors to broader career prospects and deeper clinical knowledge. Our guide spotlights premier programs close to you, paving a well-marked path towards achieving your enhanced nursing ambitions.

See our ranking methodology for RN-to-BSN degree programs.