10 Best Online Nursing Degree Programs in California (2024)

In the dynamic realm of healthcare, these programs for online nursing in California shine as guides for those pursuing nursing studies online.

1. Point Loma Nazarene University

Point Loma Nazarene University offers a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) focus, featuring three specialty tracks: adult-gerontology CNS, pediatric CNS, and adult-gerontology CNS with a women's health specialty.

The program's emphasis on holistic care, evidence-based practices, clinical hours, and extensive networking opportunities equips graduates for impactful roles in complex health systems.

Upon completion, graduates are prepared for leadership, educational, and clinical positions, with a strong ethical foundation and a commitment to compassionate patient care.

2. California State University-Chico

California State University, Chico offers an online RN to BSN Program, specially designed for RNs and recent nursing graduates with an Associate Degree in Nursing.

This program prioritizes flexibility, accommodating working nurses with busy schedules, including those in distant communities with around-the-clock work commitments.

Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing and approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, it provides expert instruction from highly regarded faculty.

3. California State University-Stanislaus

California State University, Stanislaus offers an RN to BSN program, designed to elevate associate degree RNs to the next level in their nursing careers, preparing them for leadership roles.

This program provides flexibility with full or part-time options and two delivery methods: face-to-face at the Turlock campus or fully online.

Graduates acquire comprehensive skills, including interdisciplinary knowledge application, leadership, evidence-based practice, and ethical conduct, aligning with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) Essentials for Nursing Practice.

4. California State University, San Marcos

California State University, San Marcos offers an accelerated RN to BSN program, catering to registered nurses with an associate degree (ADN). This fully online program allows nurses to earn their BSN in just 14 months.

Graduates are equipped with versatile skills for general nursing practice, prepared for graduate-level nursing programs, and qualified for leadership roles in healthcare settings.

The program features a convenient schedule with breaks between semesters and holidays, ensuring a balanced approach to education alongside personal and family commitments.

5. West Coast University

West Coast University offers an accelerated RN to BSN program, providing flexibility for students with varying circumstances. It includes practical training in evidence-based practice, emphasizing ethics, leadership, and community health.

The curriculum incorporates hands-on experience in community health settings chosen by students, fostering real-world nursing skills.

Upon graduation, RN to BSN students are equipped to support professional nursing practice, plan interventions, provide therapeutic care, and demonstrate leadership in healthcare settings.

6. California State University - Long Beach

California State University - Long Beach offers a competitive Bachelor of Science in Nursing - Online RN to BSN program designed for working nurses in California with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and 70 lower-division units completed.

The curriculum enhances clinical reasoning and leadership skills, addressing cultural, political, and socioeconomic factors influencing patient care delivery.

A BSN degree is increasingly in demand, offering career advancement and higher earning potential in response to a nursing shortage.

7. Azusa Pacific University

Azusa Pacific University offers an online RN to BSN program tailored for adult learners seeking an undergraduate degree without on-campus requirements.

This program provides the flexibility of online learning while maintaining instructional quality and professor-student interaction.

Students follow the same successful curriculum and cohort model as the traditional program, benefitting from one-on-one academic and financial advising.

The program emphasizes crucial nursing skills and competencies, including communication, critical thinking, leadership, professional nursing, and personal development, ensuring graduates are well-rounded and prepared for nursing careers.

8. California Baptist University

California Baptist University offers an RN to BSN program designed for licensed professional nurses to complete their degrees in 12 to 16 months, depending on transferable units.

This fully online program enhances students' professional knowledge, critical thinking, and leadership skills. Rooted in a faith-based mission, the curriculum emphasizes holistic nursing practice.

Clinical rotations are provided at various healthcare facilities, offering a well-rounded education. Graduates are expected to be in high demand among local and state healthcare providers.

9. PennWest California

PennWest Global Online offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program for registered nurses to advance their education online. This program emphasizes scientific inquiry, critical judgment, and personal development.

Graduates are prepared to integrate research and theory into nursing practice, promote health across diverse populations, apply leadership principles, and engage in lifelong learning and effective communication.

10. Simpson University

Simpson University's School of Nursing offers an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN Track) program designed for working registered nurses in the U.S.

This program enhances professional nursing knowledge, skills, and attitudes, addressing the dynamic healthcare landscape.

Emphasizing Christian values, holistic care, and cultural competence, it aims to develop leadership, evidence-based practice, and ethical standards among students while preparing them to meet healthcare challenges effectively.