Top Private Nursing Schools in California

Whether you are a high school student beginning your college search, a career changer considering a switch to nursing, or a healthcare professional looking to increase your career opportunities, earning a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree can be the first step toward a fulfilling career as a nurse.

California is home to 140 nursing programs, both public and private, all of which provide students with the skills they need to practice. To help you make the best decision for your needs, we have compiled a ranking of the top private nursing schools in California. Check out our guide to these programs and learn how to narrow your choices and determine which is the best fit for you.

We use a data-driven methodology to rank the best private nursing programs in California, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.

With almost 40 private nursing schools to choose from, determining which one is the best program for your goals can be challenging. Our rankings of the best private nursing programs in California are designed to help you narrow your choices, and they are based on the following key metrics.

All of the programs in our rankings are accredited. Choosing an accredited private nursing program in California is critical to your future career. Programs are accredited by independent organizations that evaluate the curriculum, individual courses, instructors, clinical placements, and student success data to ensure it meets standards for nursing education.

Selecting an unaccredited program for your nursing education can have negative consequences, including ineligibility for licensure.

Other reasons to seek an accredited program include:

To attend a private nursing school in California, undergraduate students need either a high school diploma or GED certificate. Minimum GPA requirements vary by nursing program.

Some schools require applicants to submit ACT or SAT scores. Frequently, private nursing schools ask prospective students to submit TEAS scores instead. Applicants may need to submit recommendation letters and write personal essays outlining their educational and career goals.For private nursing schools in California offering graduate programs, the requirements differ based on program type. Master of science in nursing (MSN) degree admission standards require candidates to possess an undergraduate degree. Graduate programs generally look for applicants with a bachelor’s degree, but RN-to-MSN or ADN-to-MSN bridge programs specifically accept individuals with an associate degree.

All prospective graduate students should hold RN licensure. Some schools require work experience, while others accept recent graduates.

Earning any college degree requires a financial investment. While students may worry about paying for nursing school out-of-pocket, several factors influence the cost and how much you will actually spend.

Unlike public universities, private nursing schools do not charge less for California. All students pay the same tuition, which is typically higher than at public schools. Other factors that may influence your overall costs include your living arrangements and whether you plan to work while in school.

Financial aid for nurses reduces your education costs, and you have many options to pursue. Many private schools offer nursing scholarships and grants to students based on need or merit. You can also apply for federal financial aid, which includes loans and grants. Private scholarship and grant programs also help defray costs.

If you’re working, your employer may offer a tuition assistance program to help you pay for school. You may also be able to access private student loans from your bank.

Private nursing schools in California prepare students to provide patient care in different settings. Our rankings include schools that offer nursing degrees at all levels, from associate to doctoral degrees.

Regardless of your degree level, there are opportunities to practice in California.

The amount of time it takes to become an RN in California depends on the educational pathway that each nurse pursues. RNs who complete an associate degree can graduate in two years, while those seeking a bachelor’s degree typically graduate in four years on a full-time schedule, or sooner in an accelerated program. However, learners who enroll part time may take longer to graduate and get licensure.

ProjectionsCentral predicts that demand for nurses in California between 2020 and 2030 will exceed the national rate. According to its projections, demand for nurses in the Golden State is expected to increase by 10.8%, compared to the national rate of 9%.

Many students find that community colleges or public universities offer the same quality of education as private schools at more affordable tuition prices. However, private nursing schools sometimes offer competitive tuition pricing and substantial scholarships.

Students may choose to attend a private nursing school with certain professional or hospital connections. Acceptance into a private nursing program sooner may also be higher.

Nurses in California are licensed by the California Board of Registered Nursing. To qualify, you must complete an accredited nursing education program, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, submit an application, and undergo a fingerprint background check. You can apply for an interim permit to work under supervision while awaiting test scores.

Page last reviewed December 5, 2022. Note: The ranking list and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by our Rankings Team.