Hey guys! I'm a junior hoping to pursue a degree in nursing. California schools are my top options right now. Could anyone recommend the best colleges for nursing in California? Any tips on what to look out for when choosing a nursing program would also be appreciated.
California is home to some great nursing programs, so you should have quite a few options. Here are some highly-regarded colleges for nursing in the state:
1. The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA): This university's nursing program is well-known for its rigorous curriculum and outstanding faculty. They offer both a pre-licensure bachelor's degree program in nursing and a master's entry Clinical Nurse program.
2. University of California, San Francisco (UCSF): UCSF's School of Nursing offers a Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN), doctoral programs, and online programs too. It's also recognized for its strong emphasis in research.
3. San Diego State University (SDSU): Their nursing program that is highly praised for its on-the-job training opportunities and access to diverse patient populations.
4. California State University, Long Beach (CSULB): Their nursing program offers different tracks from BSN to MSN, ADN to BSN, and even a Nursing Refresher Course. CSULB also boasts high NCLEX-RN pass rates.
5. University of California, Irvine (UCI): UCI's nursing program is relatively new, but it's been rapidly ascending in the rankings due to its top-notch curriculum and research opportunities.
When looking for nursing programs, consider factors like accreditation (look for ones accredited by either the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing), the NCLEX-RN pass rate, clinical practice opportunities, faculty expertise, class sizes, and additional certifications available.
It's also a good idea to talk with current students or recent graduates to get insider info on the programs you're considering. Good luck with your college search!
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