Hey there! I'm thinking about pursuing nursing after high school and I'm specifically looking at California. Can anyone suggest what colleges are considered the best for nursing in CA? I'm looking for programs that offer strong clinical experiences, good pass rates for licensure exams and a supportive environment. Thanks!
Absolutely, California offers some highly-regarded nursing programs.
At the top of the list is the University of California--San Francisco. This school is well-known for its nursing program, with high pass rates for licensure exams and immersive clinical experiences which includes areas like pediatrics, obstetrics, geriatrics, and psychiatric health. An added benefit is the school’s location in San Francisco, which grants access to a diverse patient population in various clinical settings.
Then there's the University of California--Los Angeles which also has a strong nursing program. UCLA offers the Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing, preparation for RN licensing, and advanced nursing degrees. The school provides robust clinical rotations which permit students to gain practical patient care experience.
The University of San Diego is a private institution with a reputable nursing program. It enjoys smaller class sizes, which can provide a more intimate and supportive learning environment.
California State University--Sacramento (Sacramento State) provides another excellent public school option. Sacramento is known for producing competent, committed, and compassionate nurses.
Finally, Azusa Pacific University features a holistic nursing program with a strong Christian influence. The school emphasizes serving underprivileged populations and focuses on health promotion and disease prevention.
Remember, the best college will depend on your personal preferences and learning style. I'd recommend visiting the schools, if possible, or participating in virtual events to get a sense of which environment you prefer. Good luck!
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.