Online Nursing Schools in CA: Your Guide to Top Programs

Learn how you can start or advance your RN nursing career in California through flexible online programs from accredited schools.

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Earning your nursing degree online from a nearby university in California can be a smart way to become a registered nurse or advance your RN career to the next level. Online nursing programs in California combine high-quality, in-person training with the affordability, convenience and safety of online coursework. RNs and other nurses continue to be in high demand across the nation and California, making this the perfect time to start your education.

Yet it can be tough to find the right nursing school, especially when you’re looking to study online. EduMed.org has released its annual ranking of the best online nursing schools in California going into 2025, with a complete breakdown of the essential data and information you need to make a smart higher education decision.

See which colleges and universities in CA have the best combinations of quality, affordability, and student services, and read which program essentials contribute to our top contenders’ success.

FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:

Types of Online RN Programs in California

There are a variety of online and hybrid programs for students interested in a degree in nursing, some of which depend on how much experience you have in the medical field. Whether you’re just starting out as an undergrad with no experience, or already far along in your nursing career, there’s an online nursing program in California for you. Check out some of the most popular programs below.

Online RN Bridge Programs in California

LVN to RN Programs

This type of online program is for licensed vocational nurses who already provide basic care and usually work under physicians and registered nurses. By enrolling in an online bridge program they can provide a wider range of care, further their career, and have more opportunities available to them. The program at Mount Saint Mary’s in Los Angeles, for instance, does not offer a bachelor’s degree but after 26 units of courses does make the student eligible to take California examination for the R.N. Licensure. Other LVN to RN programs award an associate or bachelor’s degree after completing the curriculum.

RN to BSN Programs

Designed for RNs who want to pursue their bachelor’s degree while they continue working, these programs are opportunities for nurses to grow as leaders, widen their skill set, improve their mastery, and open new doors to career options. This last component is especially worth considering, as many hospitals will hire BSNs before RNs, or have a policy of only hiring those applicants who’ve completed their BSN.

RN to MSN Programs

RNs who decide to pursue their Masters of Science in Nursing can accelerate their education timeline by enrolling in an online RN to MSN program. Taking their current knowledge and education, these programs can typically be completed in three years. Earning a master’s degree can lead to higher pay and more advanced careers, such as becoming a nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or nurse administrator.

Online Graduate and Post-Graduate Degree Programs

MSN Programs

A graduate nursing degree can offer nurses an opportunity to broaden their expertise or hone in on a specific area and specialize in one of a variety of clinical or non-clinical area. While it is possible to enroll in an online MSN program without prior nursing experience, it is more common for applicants to have first completed their BSN or ADN degree.

DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs

Both an online DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) and online nursing PhD are terminal degrees, meaning it’s the highest degree in that field. Which one you choose to pursue will largely depend on what type of work you want do. A DNP is primarily designed for those who want to become nurse practitioners while a PhD will focus more heavily on the research side.

Post-Graduate Certificate

These are programs are designed for nurses who have completed a post-graduate degree but are still looking to expand their skillset, allowing them focus on one area for a short but thorough study. For example, a nurse may want to learn more about trauma care, AIDS treatment, oncology, and more.

FAQs About Online Nursing Degrees in California

How Much Does an Online RN Program Cost in California?

Costs for online degrees can vary widely and it’s important to have a sense of how much a degree will cost before enrolling in a program. Online nursing programs in California can cost anywhere from $6,000 to over $25,000, depending whether or not students have transfer credits and whether they are attending a public or private college. Here’s a look at the costs of three online RN programs in California to give you a better idea of how much your degree will cost.

CSU Dominguez Hills

CSU Dominguez Hills

RN to BSN Program

Total Credits: 120 credits (including transfer credits)

Cost: Part-time $2,063 to $2,480 per term / Full-time: $3,269 to $3,986 per term

CSU Bakersfield

CSU Bakersfield

RN to BSN Program

Total Credits: 120 credits (including transfer credits)

Cost: ~$16,000

Stanislaus State

RN to BSN Program

Total Credits: 26 units

Cost: $19,220

How do I get into an online RN program in California?

A majority of the online RN programs in California are bridge programs, meaning they require students to have already obtained their RN license before they can go on to pursue a BSN or MSN. For example, at CSU Fullerton, applicants are expected to have their RN certification within the first semester of the program in order to attend full-time. Applicants must meet the university prerequisites, which include completing 60 semester units from a regionally accredited university, and courses like English Composition and College Level Math, in addition to the School of Nursing’s own prerequisites, like microbiology with a lab, and statistics.

How long do online RN programs take in California?

Depending on the degree, it can take anywhere from 12 months, as in the case of accelerated ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing) designed for applicants with no RN license but who already have a bachelor’s degree in another field, two to three years for MSN degrees, and four to six years for PhD or Doctorate of Nursing. For example, CSU San Marcos’s accelerated ABSN is an online program that can be completed in 14 months. USC’s online MSN program is offered as a full-time (five semesters) or part-time (eight semesters) program and takes between 21 and 33 months to complete.

California Nursing Schools with Approved Pre-Licensure RN Programs

School NameSchool TypeAvailable Program Type(s)Primary Campus Location(s)NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2020/2021)
School NameSchool TypeAvailable Program Type(s)Primary Campus Location(s)NCLEX-RN Pass Rate (2020/2021)

Source: California Board of Registered Nursing; Most recent data as of February 2022

RN Licensing Information and Requirements in California

Planning ahead and taking note of California’s specific RN licensing requirements can save you time and a potential headache down the road. While there’s occasional overlap between California’s requirements, which can be found at California’s Board of Nursing Page, and those of other states, knowing which ones are specific to California is critical to your success. Here’s what you’ll need to do to become licensed as an RN in California after you graduate from your nursing program.

1

Provide Academic Transcripts

In order to take the NCLEX-RN you will need to provide academic transcripts from your school or schools. This can be done electronically by logging into your student account and ordering official transcripts. Keep in mind that the board does not accept unofficial transcripts, so be sure to follow your school’s instructions for submitting those. They must include all completed coursework, as well as the degree awarded and date conferred.

2

Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

Applicants for the NCLEX-RN must have completed their associate degree or bachelor’s degree. A list of all associate degree programs approved by the board of nursing in California (including on campus, or online) can be found here.

3

Pay Application Fees

Applicants who completed a board-approved RN program in California will need to pay the following fees:

Application Fee: $300
Interim Permit (optional): $100
Fingerprint Card: $49.00

4

License Renewal and Continuing Education

There are three main components for renewing an RN license in California. The first is the CE (Continuing Education) requirement. For this, an RN must complete 30 contact hours of continuing education. More information on what qualifies can be found here. Applicants who are renewing their license to an active status must provide the Department of Justice with a full set of fingerprints. More information about the fingerprint requirement can be found here. Finally, applicants must report if they’ve had a license disciplined by a government agency or other disciplinary body and if they’ve been convicted of a crime in any state, U.S. territory, military court, or other country since their last renewal. More info on reporting discipline and convictions can be found here.

Salary and Job Outlook for RNs in California

In California, there will be a 12.90% increase in registered nurse positions in the coming years, making it an excellent time to earn a nursing degree. In fact, 23,420 new jobs will be added annually. Nationwide, there will also be an upward trend, with the profession growing by 5.60%, or 193,100 new jobs created yearly. The salaries you can earn as a registered nurse also make your education a worthwhile endeavor. Across the state, you can earn between $83,510 and $194,240. On average, the salary for these professionals is $133,990. However, keep in mind that specific earnings depend on the region you work in. In Napa, you can earn between $110,770 and $206,510, with the average salary being $170,200. Merced nurses earn an average of $120,930, with a range between $87,920 and $146,600. For more details, review the data we compiled below.

Area Curr. Jobs Proj. Jobs New Jobs Growth % Avg. Ann. Openings
United States 3,172,500 3,349,900 177,400 5.60% 193,100
California 333,700 376,900 43,200 12.90% 23,420

Source: Projections Central

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

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Area 10th Percentile Median 90th Percentile
California $83,510 $133,990 $194,240
Bakersfield, CA $81,510 $125,350 $168,100
Chico, CA $101,440 $136,250 $162,940
El Centro, CA $87,000 $110,980 $145,060
Fresno, CA $97,010 $131,390 $181,210
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA $43,050 $129,000 $170,140
Merced, CA $87,920 $120,930 $146,600
Modesto, CA $100,240 $131,060 $201,750
Napa, CA $110,770 $170,200 $206,510
Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, CA $84,520 $123,570 $169,310
Redding, CA $96,970 $131,160 $160,180
Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA $90,840 $127,070 $173,430
Sacramento–Roseville–Arden-Arcade, CA $101,670 $157,810 $207,920
Salinas, CA $102,320 $135,130 $161,060
San Diego-Carlsbad, CA $98,350 $132,750 $168,810
San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA $119,010 $181,240 $221,840
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA $119,220 $179,210 $211,380
San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles-Arroyo Grande, CA $98,000 $133,700 $184,310
Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA $97,390 $133,700 $182,540
Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $100,710 $128,300 $157,120
Santa Rosa, CA $101,600 $147,010 $210,580
Stockton-Lodi, CA $99,150 $136,090 $191,850
Vallejo-Fairfield, CA $107,840 $187,080 $225,970
Visalia-Porterville, CA $89,400 $124,390 $162,450
Yuba City, CA $239,000+ $239,000+ $239,000+

Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

Best Online Nursing Schools in California

UMass Global’s nursing course descriptions include foundational and advanced nursing topics such as evidence-based practice, healthcare reform, patient safety, cultural diversity, leadership, and specialized care areas like pediatrics and mental health. These courses are designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of nursing students, preparing them for various roles in healthcare settings. Practicum experiences are integrated to provide hands-on learning opportunities.

Why We Selected University of Massachusetts Global:

  • Culturally competent care training enhances patient outcomes through diverse health beliefs and practices.
  • Emphasis on evidence-based decision-making improves clinical skills and patient care quality.
  • Practicum experiences provide hands-on learning in various healthcare settings.

Program Details

  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average In-State Tuition$12,000
  • Average Institutional Aid$1,941
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course97%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award45%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio22/1
2

University of San Francisco

San Francisco, California

The University of San Francisco offers an RN to MSN program designed for registered nurses who want to earn a Master of Science in Nursing. The program focuses on leadership, evidence-based practice, and healthcare delivery improvement. It combines online coursework with in-person clinical experiences. Admission requirements include a valid RN license and a bachelor’s degree. The program prepares nurses for advanced practice roles and leadership positions in various healthcare settings.

Why We Selected University of San Francisco:

  • The program offers flexible practicum options, allowing students to complete hours at their workplace.
  • Clinical placements are tailored to specific skill competencies, enhancing practical skills.
  • The holistic application review process considers the entire applicant profile, not just GPA.

Program Details

  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average In-State Tuition$52,920
  • Average Institutional Aid$27,100
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course69%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award74%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio13/1
California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) offers various nursing programs, including BSN, MSN, and DNP degrees. The programs are designed to prepare students for advanced practice, leadership, and educational roles in healthcare. They offer flexible learning options, including online and hybrid formats. Specializations include Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Educator, and Nurse Administrator, among others.

Why We Selected California State University-Dominguez Hills:

  • The School of Nursing at CSUDH offers flexible online classes, accommodating working nurses.
  • The program provides a progressive professional nursing education with diverse learner experiences.
  • Alumni often return to precept students, offering valuable networking opportunities.

Program Details

  • AccreditationWASC
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,742
  • Average Institutional Aid$5,386
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course99%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award44%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio25/1
The RN to BSN program at California State University, Chico, is a hybrid program designed for working nurses. It requires 30 credits and can be completed in 16 months. The in-state tuition is $14,790. Admission requires a minimum GPA of 2.0. The program is highly regarded, with a program score of 4.5. Upon completion, graduates are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam and have strong career prospects as registered nurses. The program’s structure allows students to balance work and study, making it ideal for those seeking to advance their nursing careers while continuing to work. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring a quality education.

Why We Selected California State University-Chico:

  • The program offers hands-on clinical experience across five semesters, enhancing employability.
  • Chico State's nursing program boasts a high NCLEX pass rate, ensuring licensure success.
  • Graduates benefit from a strong median salary of $93,500 one year after graduation.

Program Details

  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,742
  • Average Institutional Aid$5,619
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course93%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award67%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio22/1
The Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Health Science at CSU Stanislaus is a degree completion program designed for allied health professionals seeking career advancement or certification. It is particularly suited for those with an associate degree in allied health fields. The program requires 54 units and can be completed in 18 months. The curriculum focuses on health leadership and administration, preparing students for roles in healthcare management, public health, and related fields. The program is delivered in a hybrid format, combining flexibility with in-person components. Financial aid options are available to support qualified applicants. Upon completion, graduates are well-positioned for career advancement in healthcare leadership roles.

Why We Selected California State University-Stanislaus:

  • The program offers high NCLEX-RN pass rates, ensuring strong job prospects.
  • Clinical partnerships provide diverse hands-on experiences in various healthcare settings.
  • Accelerated Second-Degree BSN option allows completion in just 17 months.

Program Details

  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,742
  • Average Institutional Aid$5,400
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course94%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award58%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
The RN to BSN program at California State University, San Marcos, is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their education. The program requires 38 credits and can be completed in 14 months, with classes structured in 8-week sessions during Fall and Spring, and 10-week sessions in Summer. Tuition is approximately $11,894, not including student fees. Admission requires an Associate Degree in Nursing, an active RN license, and completion of specific prerequisite courses. The program prepares students for leadership roles in healthcare and provides a strong foundation for further graduate studies. It emphasizes culturally sensitive care and offers clinical experiences in diverse settings, equipping graduates for various career paths within the nursing profession.

Why We Selected California State University-San Marcos:

  • The program offers an accelerated completion option, allowing students to earn their BSN in just 14 months.
  • Students can benefit from Credit for Prior Learning (CPL), which reduces the number of courses needed for graduation.
  • Clinical experiences are available in diverse settings, including acute care and community health facilities.

Program Details

  • AccreditationWASC
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,742
  • Average Institutional Aid$5,466
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course89%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award54%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio25/1
The Nursing program at Cal State East Bay prepares students to become professional generalists in nursing, focusing on undergraduate education and lifelong learning. The program leads to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and prepares students for the NCLEX exams. It requires 120 units, including nursing prerequisites, core courses, and a pre-licensure concentration. Students complete two years of prerequisites before entering the five-semester nursing program. Admission requires a minimum GPA of 3.00, specific prerequisite courses with grades of C or better, and a TEAS test score. The program offers hands-on learning through concurrent laboratories and clinical practicum courses in local hospitals and community settings. Graduates are well-positioned for careers in nursing, with opportunities for advancement and specialization. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing.

Why We Selected California State University-East Bay:

  • The Cal State East Bay Nursing Program emphasizes community engagement and health equity through diverse clinical experiences.
  • The program integrates critical thinking and evidence-based practice to enhance professional nursing skills and patient care.
  • It offers specialized tracks like the LVN-BSN Pathway, providing flexible options for licensed vocational nurses.

Program Details

  • AccreditationWASC
  • Average In-State Tuition$5,742
  • Average Institutional Aid$3,814
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course90%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award50%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio24/1
8

Fresno Pacific University

Fresno, California

Fresno Pacific University offers a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) emphasis, designed to prepare nurses for advanced practice roles in primary care across the lifespan. The program spans two years, requiring the completion of 51 units. Courses are delivered in a blended format, combining online learning with face-to-face classes one afternoon per week at the North Fresno campus. The curriculum aligns with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) standards and integrates competencies from the National Organization of Nurse Practitioner Faculties (NONPF). Applicants must hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited program, possess an active California RN license, and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. The program prepares graduates for national FNP certification exams through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB) or the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Notable features include hands-on training across diverse clinical settings, a cohort-based learning environment, and instruction from experienced faculty. The MSN program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).

Why We Selected Fresno Pacific University:

  • The program offers hands-on training with diverse patient populations, enhancing clinical skills.
  • Faculty expertise and mentorship provide a supportive academic environment for students.
  • The curriculum aligns with AACN standards, preparing students for national FNP certification exams.

Program Details

  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average In-State Tuition$32,954
  • Average Institutional Aid$16,945
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course41%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award64%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio11/1
9

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, California

The Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program at USC prepares students to practice as Family Nurse Practitioners (FNPs), addressing physical and behavioral health across the lifespan. The program consists of 49 units, including 31 units of theory, 12 units of clinical practicum, and 6 units of Social Work courses. It is typically completed in five semesters full-time or eight semesters part-time. The curriculum focuses on evidence-based practice, integrating nursing, patient assessment, and social determinants of health. Graduates are eligible for licensure as FNPs after passing the ANCC or AANP exam. The program emphasizes leadership roles in healthcare, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration for positive health outcomes. Financial aid and scholarships may be available to support students. Admissions require a bachelor’s degree in nursing and current RN licensure. Career pathways include primary and urgent care settings, with opportunities for leadership and public service roles.

Why We Selected University of Southern California:

  • The USC MSN program offers specialized training in Family Nurse Practitioner roles with a focus on social determinants.
  • The program features clinical placements in students' local communities, enhancing practical experience and convenience.
  • Experienced USC faculty teach all courses, providing students with expert guidance and mentorship.

Program Details

  • AccreditationWASC
  • Average In-State Tuition$60,446
  • Average Institutional Aid$36,359
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course27%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award91%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio9/1
10

California Baptist University

Riverside, California

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at California Baptist University is designed to prepare students for entry-level nursing roles. The program typically lasts four to five years, depending on prerequisite completion. Students must first complete general education and prerequisite courses before applying to the nursing major. The program emphasizes clinical training, critical thinking, and communication skills, with a focus on compassionate care. Clinical rotations occur at various healthcare facilities, meeting California Board of Registered Nursing requirements. Graduates are highly sought after by local and state healthcare providers. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), ensuring quality and integrity. CBU’s nursing graduates demonstrate strong clinical judgment and professional behaviors, leading to better patient outcomes. Financial aid and scholarships are available to support students throughout their studies.

Why We Selected California Baptist University:

  • California Baptist University's BSN program offers high NCLEX-RN pass rates and strong employer partnerships.
  • The program integrates comprehensive clinical training with Christian principles, enhancing ethical nursing practices.
  • CBU provides clinical rotations at diverse healthcare facilities, including major hospitals and veterans' centers.

Program Details

  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average In-State Tuition$34,918
  • Average Institutional Aid$17,236
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course56%
  • % of Students Receiving an Award62%
  • Student/Faculty Ratio19/1

Online California Nursing Resources

  • California Board of Nursing Here you’ll find resources about state requirements, educational opportunities and materials, and other relevant news. They also have contacts listed for phone and email if you have questions they don’t cover on their website.
  • The California Nurses Association This is the California affiliate of National Nurses United, the country’s largest labor union for nurses. Staying up to date on what they’re working towards is a good way to find out which issues are currently impacting nurses – they are also a resource for CE.
  • The California Hospital Association This not-for-profit corporation does advocacy work on behalf of hospitals throughout the state. Their primary goal is to champion California’s hospitals and to “support their work to care for all Californians in all ways.”
  • California Nursing Student Association This organization’s mission is to help nursing students transition to professional settings “through leadership development, education, mentorship, advocacy, activism, and stewardship.”
  • Association of California Nurse Leaders The goal of this association is help nurses become better leaders and through that improve the work they do, as well as the work of other nurses around them.
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