California is home to a wide array of nurse practitioner programs offered by top-tier institutions across the state. With its diverse population and expansive healthcare landscape, California offers aspiring NPs the opportunity to train in settings ranging from major urban hospitals to underserved rural clinics. Leading universities in the state offer CCNE-accredited programs that span in-person, hybrid, and fully online formats, along with various specialization tracks and postgraduate certificate options.
Whether you’re driven to help bridge healthcare access gaps or seeking to elevate your nursing career, these nurse practitioner programs in California provide the advanced education and clinical training needed to thrive in today’s dynamic healthcare environment. For specific program types, review our California based FNP programs, AGNP programs, and PNP program offerings. Many DNP programs are also offered in the state of California.
California NP Programs Quick Facts
- Universities Offering NP Programs in California: 30
- CCNE Accredited NP Programs in The State: 26
- ACEN Accredited NP Programs in the State: 0 for NP programs
- Average Tuition Costs: $13,000 to $25,000 for public universities, $40,000 to over $100,000 for private universities
Table of Contents
Nurse Practitioner Programs Accepting California Applicants
Program Overview:
AUHS is a “Christian-based, minority-serving university” specializing in educating students for careers in healthcare, specifically nursing, pharmacy, and research. The university takes a holistic approach to learning and promotes the development of mind, body, and spirit. It was founded in 1994 and now offers various degrees, including two FNP options.
Why Students Should Consider American University of Health Sciences’ Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The program integrates core master’s level concepts and advanced clinical foundations,
- Diverse and Inclusive: AUHS molds students to provide competent, culturally sensitive, evidence-based care.
- Proximity to Healthcare Facilities: AUHS is situated near hospitals and healthcare facilities in Signal Hill, CA.
Additional Considerations:
- Still Pursuing CCNE Accreditation: May affect the student’s eligibility for NP certification exams.
- High Tuition: More expensive than programs from public universities.
- Relatively New Institution: Less known nationally compared to other NP programs.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
Program Overview:
Azusa Pacific University is 20 miles northeast of Los Angeles in the San Gabriel Valley. The school of nursing is located on its West Campus. The university was founded in 1899 as the Training School for Christian Workers; today, it is one of the largest Christian universities in the country. Azusa Pacific University offers several options for those wishing to pursue an NP degree, indcluding a BSN to FNP with School Nurse Credential you won’t find in any other school.
Why Students Should Consider Azusa Pacific’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Diverse Specialization Options: The university offers multiple NP specializations.
- Clinical Placements: APU assists students in securing clinical placements.
- Military Benefits: APU offers additional financial support to veterans and active-duty military personnel.
Additional Considerations:
- High Tuition Costs: Fees are significantly higher than public institutions.
- Religious Affiliation: APU’s faith-based values may not suit everyone.
- Limited Online Flexibility: The NP programs are not fully online.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to DNP FNP
- BSN to FNP with School Nurse Credential
- BSN to AGNP Primary Care
- BSN to DNP AGNP Primary Care
- BSN to PNP with School Nurse Credential
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PNP Primary Care
Program Overview:
California Baptist University is one of the top Christian Colleges in the nation. The College of Nursing has been preparing nurses for clinical practice since 2005. The school expanded in 2014, tripling the amount of space available for classrooms and labs and introducing a state-of-the-art simulation lab.
Why Students Should Consider California Baptist’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Various Offerings: CBU offers tracks in FNP, AGACNP, and PMHNP.
- Flexible Learning Formats: The programs are designed to accommodate working professionals:
- Financial Aid: Financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, are available.
Additional Considerations:
- Christian University: CBU’s Faith-centered education may not align with some students’ preferences.
- High Tuition Fees: More expensive than public universities.
- Restrictive Admission: CBU prefers applicants who meet both academic and faith-based criteria.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to AGNP Acute Care
- BSN to PMHNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Acute Care
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PMHNP
Program Overview:
California State University Channel Islands is the newest addition to the CSU system. This four-year public university in Camarillo was established in 2002. The nursing program features a state-of-the-art Simulation Lab and offers multiple degree options.
Why Students Should Consider CSU-Channel Islands’ Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Affordable: CSUCI offers competitive tuition rates.
- CCNE-Accredited: The university meets CCNE’s high educational standards.
- Supportive Environment: The student-to-faculty ratio is 18:1, allowing for personalized learning.
Additional Considerations:
- Limited Options: CSUCI currently offers only the FNP track.
- Competitive Admission: Demand is high, and seats are limited.
- Small Campus: CSUCI has fewer healthcare and graduate program resources.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
Program Overview:
The California State University, Dominguez Hills, was founded in 1960 on 346 acres of land that once belonged to Juan José Dominguez, a Spanish soldier who received the original land grant from King Carlos III of Spain in 1784. The nursing program was established in 1973 and celebrated 50 years of educating health professionals.
Why Students Should Consider CSU-Dominguez Hills’ Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Affordability: CSUDH offers competitive tuition rates.
- CCNE-Accredited: Meets high nursing education standards.
- Supportive Environment: CSUDH fosters a diverse and inclusive learning environment
Additional Considerations:
- One Option: CSUDH only offers an FNP track.
- Part-Time Program: Designed primarily for part-time enrollment.
- Limited Clinical Placement: CSUDH does not guarantee clinical placements.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
Program Overview:
CSU Fresno’s School of Nursing in the College of Health and Human Services is located in the Central San Joaquin Valley, home to four of the region’s largest hospitals. Students have a unique opportunity to get hands-on experience in the heart of the region. The school offers two NP pathways.
Why Students Should Consider CSU-Fresno’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Affordability: As part of the California State University system, Fresno State offers competitive tuition rates.
- Clinical Placement Support: The School assists with preceptor selection for clinical placements.
- CCNE-Accredited: CSU-Fresno State meets stringent educational standards.
Additional Considerations:
- Only One Track Available: CSU-Fresno State only offers an FNP track.
- Competitive Admission: The school only accepts a limited number of students per year.
- Regional Focus: Clinical placements are concentrated in the Central San Joaquin Valley.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
Program Overview:
The School of Nursing at CSU Long Beach was established the same year the university opened, 1949. It started an RN-BSN completion program and expanded over the years to include multiple degree options. This university is one to consider for those interested in pursuing a DNP as a nurse practitioner.
Why Students Should Consider CSU-Long Beach’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Multiple Tracks Offered: Students can choose from the FNP, PNP, and AGACNP tracks.
- Affordable Tuition: CSULB provides a cost-effective pathway to advanced nursing practice.
- CCNE-Accredited: Adheres to quality nursing education standards.
Additional Considerations:
- Rigorous Program: CSULB’s DNP programs are academically and clinically demanding.
- Hybrid Format: Courses are not 100% online.
- Competitive Admission: CSULB has limited seats per cohort.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to DNP FNP
- BSN to DNP AGNP Acute Care
- BSN to DNP PNP Primary Care
- BSN to DNP PMHNP
Program Overview:
Located in the heart of Los Angeles, Cal State LA is ranked number one in the United States for the upward mobility of its students. It’s also federally designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution, Minority-Serving Institution, and Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution. The Rongxiang Xu College of Health and Human Services Patricia A. Chin School of Nursing offers a high-tech simulation lab featuring high-fidelity manikins, a physical assessment laboratory, and task trainers to provide students with unique hands-on experiences during their education.
Why Students Should Consider CSU-LA’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- CCNE-Accredited: Adheres to quality nursing education standards.
- Strategic Location: Students have access to a wide range of healthcare facilities for clinical placements.
- Experienced Faculty: Students benefit from mentorship by seasoned faculty members.
Additional Considerations:
- Location: Heavy traffic and high cost of living can negatively impact student life.
- Limited Online Options: May not suit working RNs or those needing schedule flexibility.
- Competitive Admission: Admits only a limited number of students per year.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to AGNP Acute Care
- BSN to PMHNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to AGNP Acute Care
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PMHNP
Program Overview:
California State University San Marcos is about an hour from the U.S.-Mexico border. It was founded in 1989, and today, about half of CSUSM students are underrepresented minorities. The College of Education, Health, and Human Services nursing programs were established in the fall of 2006, and the college added MSN programs just three years later.
Why Students Should Consider CSU-San Marcos’ Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Scheduling: The part-time format is ideal for working nurses.
- Affordable Tuition: CSUSM offers competitive tuition rates.
- Diverse Clinical Experiences: Clinical placements are available in various settings within San Diego and Riverside Counties.
Additional Considerations:
- Part-Time Format: Full-time enrollment is not an option.
- Hybrid Model: On-campus classes required.
- No Guaranteed Clinical Placement: Students are responsible for finding their own preceptors and clinical sites.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to PMHNP
Program Overview:
Stanislaus State College was established in 1957 as the fifteenth campus in the CSU system. It’s centrally located, a short distance from the San Francisco Bay Area, Big Sur, Monterey, the Sierra Nevada, Yosemite National Park, and Sacramento’s governmental hub. The School of Nursing in the College of Science offers multiple nursing degrees, including an NP option.
Why Students Should CSU-Stanislaus Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- CCNE-Accredited: Adheres to high nursing education standards.
- Financial Assistance: Specialty funding is available for students willing to work in designated underserved areas after graduation.
- Cohort-Based Structure: Students progress through the program as a cohort.
Additional Considerations:
- Limited Options: Only an FNP track is available.
- Hybrid Format: Students must attend on-campus sessions 2–4 days per month.
- Competitive Entry: Admits only about 24 students per year.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
Program Overview:
What is unique about Charles R. Drew University is that it focuses strictly on preparing students for degrees in healthcare, from radiology techs to nurses to physicians. The university was established in 1966 and today is designated as a minority-serving institution by the U.S. Office for Civil Rights and is one of only four Historically Black Medical Colleges in the country. It opened the Mervyn M. Dymally School of Nursing in the fall of 2010, now the Mervyn M. Dymally College of Nursing, and offers two NP programs.
Why Students Should Consider Charles R. Drew’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- CCNE-Accredited: Meets the high standards for quality nursing education.
- Flexible Hybrid Format: Enables students to balance their studies with professional and personal commitments.
- Cohort-Based Learning Environment: Fosters a collaborative learning experience.
Additional Considerations:
- Clinical Placement Difficulties: Students are responsible for securing their own clinical placements.
- Teaching: Some students have reported that courses are largely self-taught.
- Organizational Challenges: Some had issues with program organization and communication.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- BSN to PMHNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PMHNP
Program Overview:
Concordia University Irvine is a comprehensive Lutheran Christian university that has been educating students for close to 50 years. The nursing program is taught on the Spectrum Campus, which features 20,000 sq. ft. of state-of-the-art nursing teaching space and more than 90,000 sq. ft. for additional unique educational spaces. CUI offers one NP degree.
Why Students Should Consider Concordia-Irvine’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Online Learning: The online, asynchronous format allows students to complete coursework on their own schedules.
- Sequential Course Structure: Taking one 8-week course at a time allows students to focus on each subject.
- Supportive Environment: Students benefit from faculty mentorship and a community-oriented atmosphere.
Additional Considerations:
- Limited Specialization Options: The university only offers an FNP track.
- Self-Directed Learning: Students need to be highly self-motivated because courses are largely self-taught.
- Cost: The program’s tuition is considered high.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
Program Overview:
Fresno Pacific University is the only accredited Christian university in the Valley with regional campuses located in North Fresno, Visalia, Bakersfield, and Merced. FPU opened in 1944, but the School of Natural Sciences wasn’t established until 2005. Today, the School of Nursing offers multiple programs, including one NP option.
Why Students Should Consider Fresno Pacific’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Blended Learning: The program’s hybrid format offers flexibility for working professionals.
- Comprehensive Clinical Training: The program provides hands-on training with a diverse patient population
- Cohort-Based Learning: Students progress through the program in collaborative cohorts.
Additional Considerations:
- High Tuition Costs: As a private institution, FPU’s tuition rates are relatively high.
- Limited Specialization Options: FPU only offers an FNP track.
- New Program: FPU’s MSN-FNP program only started last Fall 2022.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
Program Overview:
LLU is a Seventh-day Adventist university established in 1905, and the School of Nursing was there right from the beginning. Students have access to the largest medical simulation center in the country, with a fully equipped skills lab featuring 20 patient beds and medical equipment. Students also get the opportunity to get hands-on clinical experiences at the world-renowned Loma Linda University Medical Center.
Why Students Should Consider Loma Linda’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Multiple Tracks: LLU offers FNP, PNP, and AGNP specializations.
- Hybrid Learning: The university offers flexibility for working professionals while ensuring hands-on learning.
- Emphasis on Whole-Person Care: LLU’s FNP program is designed to “make man whole”.
Additional Considerations:
- High Tuition Costs: As a private institution, LLU is quite costly.
- Inflexible Scheduling: Placements, which offer limited flexibility, are made without student input.
- Religious Affiliation: Some may find the religious emphasis less aligned with their personal beliefs.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP DNP
- BSN to DNP AGNP Acute Care
- BSN to DNP AGNP Primary Care
- BSN to DNP PNP Acute Care
- BSN to DNP PNP Primary Care
- BSN to DNP PMHNP
Program Overview:
NU was established in 1971 by U.S. Navy Capt. Dr. David Chigos, who wanted to provide educational opportunities and support for deployed soldiers and Veterans. The university supports students in many ways, including free virtual mental health counseling, 1:1 assistance for navigating the financial aid process, and a NU Mentoring Network for individual student and alumni career guidance. It offers two NP options.
Why Students Should Consider National University’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Evidence-Based Practice: The curriculum focuses on critical thinking and clinical decision-making skills.
- Flexible Learning Options: NU’s hybrid format allows students to balance work, life, and education.
- Year-Round Enrollment: Students can begin their studies at multiple points throughout the year.
Additional Considerations:
- Program Cost: NU’s tuition rates are higher compared to public universities.
- Clinical Placements: Since they are arranged by the university, some students had challenges in securing desired locations.
- Inconsistent Support: Some students report inconsistent academic advising and faculty responsiveness.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PMHNP
Program Overview:
PLNU is a faith-based Christian university that started as the Pacific Bible College in 1902. The school experienced several name changes and grew rapidly in the last 120+ years. Today, it has more than 3,500 undergraduate and graduate students and offers more than 70 programs, including three NP programs.
Why Students Should Consider Point Loma Nazarene’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Learning Format: The program’s online, asynchronous structure is more accessible to working nurses.
- Leadership Development: The DNP program is also designed to enhance leadership skills.
- Clinical Partnerships: PLNU has collaborations with a variety of healthcare settings.
Additional Considerations:
- Tuition Costs: PLNU is a private university, making it costlier than public institutions.
- Clinical Placement Coordination: The clinical placements arranged by the school may have limited flexibility or availability.
- Faith-Based Education: PLNU’s faith-integrated curriculum may not be aligned with some students’ beliefs or preferences.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN/MSN to FNP DNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate FNP
Program Overview:
SDSU was founded in 1897 and is a federally-designated Hispanic-serving Institution and an Asian American and Native-American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution. It’s the oldest higher education institution in San Diego, only 30 minutes north of the U.S.-Mexico border. The School of Nursing was established in 1953; MSN programs were added in 1982. Today, the school offers one NP program.
Why Students Should Consider San Diego State’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The program integrates core competencies with evidence-based inquiry, leadership, healthcare policy, and finance.
- Extensive Clinical Partnerships: The program has over 100 healthcare partners throughout San Diego and Imperial Valley counties.
- Competitive Tuition Fees: The cost of the program is relatively cheaper compared to those offered by private schools.
Additional Considerations:
- Limited Flexibility: Courses are primarily in-person.
- Competitive Admission: The application process can be rigorous.
- Pending CCNE Accreditation: Although approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, CCNE accreditation is still pending.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to AGNP Acute Care
Program Overview:
SFSU was founded in 1899, and the School Nurse Program was introduced in 1955. This program was phased out in the 1960s to shift focus from school nursing to a BSN program. In 1994, the College of Health and Human Services was established and became the School of Nursing’s home. Master’s programs were introduced in 1979, and the NP program was introduced in 1994.
Why Students Should Consider San Francisco State’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The programs ensure a well-rounded education.
- Affordable Tuition: SFSU offers competitive program fees.
- Clinical Placement Support: SFSU provides assistance in securing clinical placements.
Additional Considerations:
- Limited Program Options: Only the FNP track is offered.
- Hybrid Format: The schedule can be challenging for working nurses.
- Competitive Admission: SFSU only accepts a limited number of students per year.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
Program Overview:
Samuel Merritt University started in 1909 with the establishment of a nursing credentialing program at Samuel Merritt Hospital in Oakland. This diploma program lasted until 1981 when it was replaced with a four-year baccalaureate option. Master’s programs were introduced in 1992. Today, the university prepares nurses for all levels of the field.
Why Students Should Consider Samuel Merritt’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Accreditation: All NP programs are accredited by CCNE.
- Flexibility: Courses are offered online.
- Supportive Environment: SMU offers personalized mentorship and has a low student-to-faculty ratio.
Additional Considerations:
- Cost: The tuition fees are quite high.
- Program Structure: Schedules can be unpredictable, which can be challenging for working students.
- Clinical Placement: Some students have reported difficulties in securing clinical placements.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- RN to FNP
- BSN to FNP online
- BSN to FNP DNP online
Program Overview:
Located about one hour north of San Francisco, Sonoma State University offers a friendly, safe, and informal atmosphere on a beautiful campus. The School of Science and Technology at SSU is home to the Department of Nursing, which has been educating nurses for over 50 years. It currently offers an NP option.
Why Students Should Consider Sonoma State’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Recognition: The FNP program is BRN-approved and ACEN-accredited.
- Flexible Program: SSU provides both full-time and part-time pathways.
- Cohort-Based Learning: Students progress through the curriculum together.
Additional Considerations:
- In-Person Attendance: Students are required to attend some seminars and labs on the SSU campus.
- Clinical Course Scheduling: Clinical courses are typically scheduled on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays.
- Competitive Admission: Preference is given to applicants from Northern California or those serving underserved populations.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
Program Overview:
Touro University was established in 1997. Its 44-acre campus sits within the historic Mare Island Naval Base. The School of Nursing offers programs designed for working professionals. It offers multiple on-campus resources for nursing students, including a Clinical Skills Center with simulated exam rooms and a Simulation Center designed to mirror an ER/ICU setting with multiple mannequins and simulated patient experiences.
Why Students Should Consider Touro’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Format: The program is 90% online coursework and 10% on-campus intensives.
- Clinical Placements: Touro ensures clinical placements for its students.
- Personalized Mentorship: There is one-on-one mentorship with clinical faculty.
Additional Considerations:
- Tuition Costs: Tuition may be higher than some public institutions.
- Residency Requirement: The program is open exclusively to California residents.
- Small Institution: Support services may be limited.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PMHNP
Program Overview:
UC Irvine was founded in 1965, and its first nursing program was a graduate-level program in 1986 in partnership with UCLA. The nursing program grew over the years, and the Sue and Bill Gross School of Nursing was established in 2016. In 2022, the school introduced a state-of-the-art simulation lab where students get hands-on experience to prepare them for their future careers.
Why Students Should Consider UC-Irvine’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Hybrid Learning: The program combines asynchronous and synchronous online learning with periodic on-campus intensives.
- Passing Rates: UCI has maintained a 100% pass rate on its FNP board exams since 1996.
- Diverse Experiences: UCI is affiliated with various UC hospitals, including the VA in Long Beach.
Additional Considerations:
- Program Duration: The FNP track takes approximately three years to complete.
- High Clinical Requirement: UCI’s requirement (1,020 hours) exceeds national minimums.
- On-Campus Requirements: On-campus intensives necessitate travel and time management considerations.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP DNP
Program Overview:
UCLA was founded in 1919, but the School of Nursing wasn’t established until 1949. Today, the school offers an innovative Nursing Simulation Education Program (NSEP) where students can practice delivering patient care and learning essential skills.
Why Students Should Consider UCLA’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Multiple Options: UCLA offers eight NP options, more than any other school in the state.
- Academic Excellence: UCLA is consistently ranked among the top nursing schools in the nation.
- Financial Support Opportunities: The UCLA School of Nursing offers various types of financial aid.
Additional Considerations:
- Program Costs: Tuition for UCLA’s NP programs can be substantial.
- On-Campus Requirements: Students are expected to attend on-campus sessions, which may require travel for some.
- Competitive Admissions: Applicants need a strong academic background and relevant clinical experience.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- FNP with a focus on Occupational And Environmental Health
- BSN to AGNP Acute
- BSN to AGNP Primary
- AGNP Primary Care with a focus on Occupational And Environmental Health
- BSN to PNP Acute
- BSN to PNP Primary
- BSN to PNP Dual Specialty Acute/Primary
- PMHNP Certificate Program
Program Overview:
One of the world’s leading health sciences universities, the University of California San Francisco, dates its founding to 1864. The Training School for Nurses was established in 1907 and offered its first baccalaureate program in 1917. By the mid-1900s, it offered several MSN options. Today, students can choose from five NP tracks at the school.
Why Students Should Consider UCSF’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Prestigious Reputation and Rankings: UCSF consistently ranks among the top nursing schools in the U.S.
- Several Tracks: UCSF offers FNP, AGNP, and PNP specializations.
- Clinical Partnerships: Access to world-class clinical training through partnerships with UCSF Health, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, and other top facilities.
Additional Considerations:
- Competitive Admissions: UCSF is extremely selective and has a low acceptance rate.
- Intensive Curriculum: The programs are rigorous and fast-paced, requiring full-time commitment.
- Limited Flexibility: Most NP tracks are campus-based.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP DNP
- BSN to AGNP DNP Acute Care
- BSN to AGNP DNP Primary Care
- BSN to PNP DNP Acute Care
- BSN to PNP DNP Primary Care
- BSN to PMHNP
Program Overview:
The University of San Diego is a Catholic university near the Mexican border. It was founded in 1949, and the School of Nursing was established in 1973. In 1979, the school started offering MSN degrees, and the NP program followed in 1986. The school’s state-of-the-art Dickinson Nursing Simulation Center offers students hands-on experience with six primary care exam rooms, three acute-care hospital rooms, virtual reality simulations, and more. Students can choose from three NP tracks.
Why Students Should Consider the University of San Diego’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Immersive Curriculum: The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based practice, quality improvement, and systems thinking.
- Personalized Attention: USD maintains small student-to-faculty ratios.
- Strategic Location: USD offers students access to a vibrant healthcare community with numerous clinical placement opportunities.
Additional Considerations:
- High Costs: The NP programs come with substantial tuition and fees.
- Limited Flexibility: Most NP and DNP courses are full-time and delivered on campus.
- Religious Affiliation: USD is a Catholic university, and its values influence aspects of its curriculum.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP DNP
- Dual FNP/AGNP DNP
- Dual FNP/PNP DNP
- BSN to DNP PMHNP
Program Overview:
The University of Southern California opened its doors to its first students in 1880. Today, it is one of the world’s leading educational institutions. The NP program is offered through the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, which was established in 1920.
Why Students Should Consider USC’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Learning: Designed for working professionals, the program offers online coursework complemented by two on-campus intensives.
- Clinical Placement Support: USC provides dedicated support to match students with approved clinical sites.
- Personalized Attention: The program has small class sizes that foster strong relationships between the students and the faculty.
Additional Considerations:
- High Tuition and Living Cost: USC is a private university with a premium price tag.
- Limited Option: The university only offers an FNP track.
- Heavy Clinical Requirements: The program requires extensive clinical hours.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
Program Overview:
The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences has multiple campuses across the country, in Florida, Texas, and California. The School of Nursing in the College of Health Sciences boasts a 95% first-time FNP certification exam pass rate. Most graduate classes are online, but students must come to campus for hands-on experience in the simulation labs. The school offers four NP options.
Why Students Should Consider USAHS-California’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Format: USAHS’s NP programs combine the convenience of online coursework with essential in-person clinical experiences.
- Multiple Entry Points: Pathways are open to RNs, BSN holders, and MSN holders.
- Clinical Placement Support: USAHS provides dedicated advisors to assist students in finding suitable practicum sites.
Additional Considerations:
- Reputation: Lacks the widespread recognition of more established nursing schools.
- Cost of Attendance: Tuition remains relatively high.
- New Program: Data on certification exam pass rates, graduation rates, and employment outcomes are limited.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- RN to FNP
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to DNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
Program Overview:
USU was founded in 1997 to focus on providing educational opportunities for underserved populations such as working adults, first-generation college students, Latinx, and immigrants to increase bilingual capacity in nursing, healthcare, and education in Southern California. The College of Nursing and Health Sciences offers a variety of programs, including two NP options.
Why Students Should Consider US University’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- CCNE-Accredited: USU meets NP education standards.
- Flexible Format: The hybrid format allows students to balance studies with personal and professional life.
- Clinical Placement: The Office of Field Experience assists students with securing clinical settings for their practicum hours.
Additional Considerations:
- Single Specialization Option: USU only offers an FNP track.
- Tuition Fee: The program tuition is quite substantial.
- Limited Opportunities: Smaller programs like USU’s may not offer robust alumni connections, mentorships, or nursing research opportunities.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
Program Overview:
West Coast University focuses exclusively on healthcare careers, from nursing to physical therapy to physician assistants. Its nursing program uses state-of-the-art simulation labs with high-fidelity manikins that provide real-time feedback and help students practice skills that will help them in their clinical assignments and their careers. Students can choose from three NP tracks.
Why Students Should Consider WCU-Orange County’s Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Accelerated Pace: Allows students to complete required classes more quickly.
- CCNE-Accredited: The NP programs meet the required academic quality and rigor.
- Clinical Placement: WCU assists students in securing appropriate clinical settings for their practicum hours.
Additional Considerations:
- Tuition Fee: The cost of attendance is significantly higher than public universities.
- Fast Pace: The accelerated option may be intense and demanding for some working students.
- Limited Research Opportunities. WCU’s NP programs are clinically focused and do not emphasize research training.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN to FNP
- BSN to AGNP Acute Care
- BSN to AGNP Primary Care
- BSN to PMHNP
Program Overview:
Western University of Health Sciences has two campuses, one in Oregon and one in Pomona, California. It has prepared healthcare professionals for their careers for more than 45 years. It boasts a 100% pass rate for certification exams for graduates of the MSN-FNP program. Western University of Health Sciences offers two NP programs.
Why Students Should Consider WUHS’ Nurse Practitioner Programs:
- Flexible Learning: Hybrid format that combines online coursework with periodic on-campus intensives.
- Clinical Placement: The university provides support in securing clinical placements.
- Supportive Environment: WUHS emphasizes a foundation of caring, science, and humanism.
Additional Considerations:
- Cost of Attendance: The NP programs come with significant tuition costs.
- Limited Options: Only offers FNP specialization.
- Competitive Admission: Applicants must have a solid GPA and strong clinical experience.
Nurse Practitioner Programs Offered by the School:
- BSN/MSN to FNP DNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to FNP
- BSN/MSN to FNP PMHNP
- Post-Graduate Certificate MSN to PMHNP
Nurse Practitioner Licensure Requirements in California
Degree level needed: Graduate degree in an NP role (MSN or DNP)
Supervised hours total: 500 minimum
Required exams: Specific to NP specialty
- American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) – AGPCNP, AGACNP, ENP, FNP, PNP-Primary, PMHNP
- American Academy of Nurse Practitioners Certification Board (AANPCB) – AGPCNP, ENP, FNP, PMHNP
- American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) – AGACNP
- National Certification Corporation (NCC) – NNP, WHNP
- Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB) – PNP-Primary, PNP-Acute
Background check: Criminal background check (includes fingerprinting for a federal and state criminal history record check), as conducted by the California Department of Justice
State licensing board: California Board of Nursing, 1747 N. Market Blvd., Suite 150 Sacramento, CA 95834-1924
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most affordable nurse practitioner program in California?
California State University system schools usually have the least expensive NP programs for California residents. However, there are affordable options for non-residents, such as those offered by California Baptist University and West Coast University-Orange County.
What California nurse practitioner program has the highest pass rate for the national certification exam?
While pass rates fluctuate per year, institutions that have garnered high pass rates in recent years include UC-Irvine (100% for AANPCB-FNP exam), UC-Fullerton (100% for NCC-WHNP exam), and UCLA (97%).
What financial aid and scholarships are available to California residents?
- Advanced Practice Healthcare Scholarship Program
- Behavioral Health Scholarship Program (PMHNP)
- Association of California Nurse Leaders
- Nurse Corps Scholarship Program
The State of Nursing in California
About a third of California residents live in areas where there is a shortage of primary care doctors. This shortage disproportionately affects rural areas, with some having only 40 primary care providers per 100,000 people. Luckily, California recently passed a law that provides nurse practitioners with a path to independent practice to help lessen the effects of this shortage and give these professionals exciting professional opportunities in the state.
