Compare top nursing programs in California by cost, length, acceptance rate, and career outcomes. Find the right school for your goals in minutes.
Enter your zip code to see matching programs in California.
Compare 73 leading nursing programs in California based on tuition, program length, and accreditation.
Enter your zip code to discover accredited nursing programs near you in California — compare tuition, format, and start dates.
Choosing a nursing school depends on program type, time to completion, cost, clinical opportunities, NCLEX pass rates, and location. Here's how the main program types compare:
| Factor | ADN Programs | BSN Programs | Accelerated BSN |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time to Complete | 2 years | 4 years | 12–18 months |
| Typical Cost | $5,000–$20,000 | $20,000–$80,000 | $30,000–$80,000 |
| Best For | Entry-level RN | Career advancement | Career changers |
| Prerequisite | HS diploma / GED | HS diploma / GED | Non-nursing bachelor's |
| Delivery Options | On campus / Hybrid | On campus / Online / Hybrid | On campus (intensive) |
If budget is a priority, these strategies can help you find the most affordable pathway into nursing in California:
Community Colleges
ADN programs at community colleges typically offer lower tuition than universities.
Financial Aid
Federal grants, state scholarships, and employer tuition reimbursement can reduce costs.
In-State Tuition
California residents can save significantly with in-state tuition rates at public institutions.
Work While You Study
Evening, weekend, and hybrid programs let you keep working while earning your degree.
Accelerated BSN programs are designed for students who already have a bachelor's degree in another field. They offer the fastest path to becoming a registered nurse.
Best for: Career changers with a non-nursing bachelor's degree looking to enter nursing quickly. These intensive programs cover the same clinical and didactic content as traditional BSN programs in a compressed timeline.
Explore Accelerated Programs →Online nursing programs offer flexibility for students balancing work or family commitments. Many California schools now offer hybrid and fully online options.
Important: Clinical hours must still be completed in person at approved sites in California. Fully online RN programs without any in-person requirements are rare. Always verify clinical placement support before enrolling.
Typical admission requirements for nursing programs in California include:
Some programs are more competitive than others — accelerated and BSN programs at universities tend to have stricter admission criteria. Check individual program pages for specific requirements.
Tell us your zip code and program preference, and we’ll connect you with top nursing schools that match your goals — tuition budget, schedule, and location.
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Verified
NCLEX Pass Rates
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics; National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN); CCNE; ACEN.