Best Online Nursing Programs in California (2026 Guide)
Last updated: April 2026 · Program details and tuition rates are subject to change.
California has one of the largest and most diverse nursing education landscapes in the country. With over 150 Board of Registered Nursing (BRN)-approved programs — from community colleges with tuition under $4,000 to prestigious UC and CSU schools — there's an online nursing program for virtually every budget and career stage.
California's massive healthcare industry, high nursing salaries, and growing population make it one of the top states for nursing careers.
California is NOT an NLC Compact State
If you plan to practice in California, you must obtain a California RN license through the BRN, regardless of where you earned your degree or hold a license.
Why Choose an Online Nursing Program in California?
Highest Nursing Salaries in the U.S.
California RNs average $133,340/year — far above the national average.
Massive Job Market
California employs more nurses than any other state, with tens of thousands of open positions annually.
Affordable Public Options
Community college nursing programs start at just $3,000–$4,000 total tuition.
Strong Regulatory Standards
The California BRN maintains rigorous accreditation oversight for all approved programs.
Diversity of Programs
ADN, BSN, MSN, DNP, and certificate programs available online and hybrid.
Top Online Nursing Programs in California
CSU Channel Islands
Online RN-to-BSN
- Format: 100% online RN-to-BSN
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Advantage: CSU tuition rates — significantly lower than private universities
- Best for: Working California RNs seeking an affordable BSN
CSU Channel Islands offers one of the most accessible online BSN completion programs in the California State University system.
CSU Fullerton
BSN Programs — No Entrance Exam Required
- Resident tuition: $6,084/year
- Non-resident tuition: $18,684/year
- NCLEX Pass Rate: 96–100%
- Admissions: Holistic review based on GPA — no TEAS/HESI required
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Programs: Traditional BSN, accelerated BSN for second-degree students
CSU Fullerton stands out because it does not require TEAS or HESI entrance exams, relying instead on a holistic admissions review.
California State University, Long Beach
BSN
- Tuition: Approximately $27,552 total (tuition + fees)
- Annual enrollment: 228 students — one of the biggest in California
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Note: On-campus with some online components
CSULB operates one of the largest nursing programs in the CSU system, giving students access to extensive clinical partnerships across the Los Angeles metro area.
San Diego State University
BSN
- Tuition: Approximately $37,280 (tuition + books)
- Campuses: San Diego and Brawley
- Annual enrollment: 200 students
- Accreditation: CCNE
SDSU's School of Nursing offers strong programs with multiple campus locations across San Diego County.
National University
Online BSN & MSN
- Tuition: $67,561 (tuition + fees)
- Campuses: San Diego, Los Angeles, Fresno + fully online
- Annual enrollment: 150 students
- Accreditation: CCNE
- Best for: Working professionals who need maximum schedule flexibility
For students seeking maximum online flexibility, National University is a fully accredited option with campuses across the state and a fully online track.
Affordable Community College ADN Programs — Under $4,000
California community colleges offer ADN programs for as little as $3,100–$4,000 in tuition. After earning your ADN and passing the NCLEX-RN, you can work as an RN while completing an online RN-to-BSN — a proven, affordable path to a BSN.
| School | Location | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Allan Hancock College | Santa Maria | $3,588–$3,726 |
| Antelope Valley College | Lancaster | $3,404 |
| Long Beach City College | Long Beach | $3,339–$3,385 |
| San Diego City College | San Diego | $3,128–$3,220 |
| Los Angeles City College | Los Angeles | $3,174 |
| Chabot College | Hayward | $3,772–$3,910 |
| Chaffey College | Rancho Cucamonga | $3,381 |
| Palomar College | San Marcos | $3,119+ |
CSU Schools — Moderate Pricing
| School | Tuition + Fees | Annual Enrollment |
|---|---|---|
| CSU Long Beach | $27,552 | 228 students |
| CSU San Bernardino | $29,828 + $2,500–$3,500 first year | 132 students |
| CSU San Marcos | $35,488 + $2,000 first year | 80 students |
| CSU Sacramento | $36,416 | 160 students |
| CSU Northridge | $46,400 | 120 students |
⚠️ A Note on Private Schools
California has many private nursing schools with tuition ranging from $60,000 to over $180,000. Before committing to a private school, compare their NCLEX pass rates and job placement outcomes to more affordable public options — in many cases, CSU and community college programs produce equal or better outcomes at a fraction of the cost.
California Nursing Schools That Don't Require Entrance Exams
Admission Requirements
Community College ADN Programs
- GPA: 2.5–3.0 minimum (highly competitive — many accepted students have 3.5+)
- Prerequisites: Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, English, Psychology
- Entrance exams: Many require TEAS (scoring 70%+ recommended)
- Waitlists: Common at popular programs — apply to multiple schools
CSU BSN Programs
- GPA: 3.0–3.5 minimum for competitive admission
- Prerequisites: Science prerequisites with lab components
- Entrance exams: Varies — CSU Fullerton does NOT require TEAS/HESI
- Impacted programs: Many CSU nursing programs receive more applicants than available spots
Online RN-to-BSN Programs
- Licensure: Active, unencumbered California RN license
- GPA: 2.5–3.0 minimum
- RN experience: Some programs prefer 1+ year of clinical experience
California Nursing Job Market
$133,340
Avg. RN Salary/year (#1 in U.S.)
$158,130
Avg. NP Salary/year
10%+
Job growth through 2032
#1
Most nurses employed
Major Healthcare Employers
Top Metro Areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cheapest nursing programs in California?
Community college ADN programs are the most affordable, with tuition as low as $3,100–$4,000. The ADN-to-BSN pathway (community college ADN → online RN-to-BSN) is the most cost-effective way to earn a BSN in California.
Can I attend an online nursing program from out of state and work in California?
Yes, but you'll need to apply for a California RN license through the BRN. California is not part of the Nurse Licensure Compact, so you'll need a state-specific license regardless of where your degree is from.
How competitive are California nursing programs?
Very competitive. Popular CSU and community college programs may receive 3–5x more applications than available spots. Having a GPA above 3.5 and strong prerequisite grades significantly improves your chances.
Are accelerated BSN programs available online in California?
Some schools offer accelerated BSN programs for students with a bachelor's degree in another field. These programs are typically 12–18 months but include significant in-person clinical requirements. The didactic (classroom) portion may be partially online.
Is an ADN or BSN better in California?
Both allow you to sit for the NCLEX-RN and work as a registered nurse. However, BSN-prepared nurses have access to more leadership roles, higher average salaries, and better long-term career advancement. Many California hospitals now prefer or require BSN-prepared nurses.
Last updated: April 2026. Program details and tuition rates are subject to change. Always verify current information directly with the school and the California Board of Registered Nursing.
Get the highest-paying remote nursing jobs
Join 5,000+ nurses who receive curated remote opportunities every week. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.