Published: September 1, 2022
By: Colleges of Distinction Staff
Jump to: California State University, Fullerton | San Francisco State University | San José State University | University of California, Irvine | Frequently Asked Questions
The path to becoming anurseis undoubtedly a long and arduous process that requires hard work and dedication. With ashortagein capable and compassionatenurses, it is becoming increasingly important thatnursingprograms are well rounded, highly accredited, and focused on student success. Colleges of Distinction is proud to recognize California schools with these very programs, ones that fully support futurenursesalong (and beyond!) their undergraduate journey. These institutions, already highly regarded for their commitment to theFour Distinctions, go the extra mile with their cutting-edgenursingdegrees.
Our California top colleges fornursing offer students an exciting place to learn and thrive, as proven by the following:
Stability and excellenceas core tenets of thesenursingprograms. Not only have these programs been awarding degrees for more than 10 years, but faculty are continually recognized for their impressive experience and research.
Validationfrom the ACEN (Accreditation Commission for Education inNursing) and/or CCNE (Commission on CollegiateNursingEducation) for their commitment to quality and student success.
Practical experiencesthat provide ample opportunities for students to apply their knowledge to the real world through internships, mentorship programs, and volunteer opportunities.
High mastery ratesin such standardized exams as the NCLEX and HESI A2.
Dedicated advising and counselingavailable specifically fornursingstudents.
Liberal arts exposureto make students culturally competent, well-rounded individuals with superior critical thinking and leadership skills.
High-impact practicesembedded into the curriculum.
Industry connectionscultivated by faculty and staff to help students build their network and find meaningful work.
California State University, Fullerton
Fullerton, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
As part of the world-class California State University system, Cal State Fullerton prepares its diverse student body for success in a global society. Titans actively engage in hands-on learning, research, clubs and organizations, and volunteer work that enriches the local community.
Cal State Fullerton may be the largest CSU campus with more than 34,000 undergraduate students, but its mission to provide high-impact immersive learning ensures personal, fulfilling experiences for every student. Located in Orange County, CSUF is near Los Angeles, Disneyland, Universal Studios, and the beautiful California coastline. Students thrive with the support of one-on-one academic advising, college career specialists, and student success initiatives.
Acceptance rate 68% • Net price $8,322 • SAT Range 1000-1180 • Students submitting SAT scores 97%
Total Undergrad Population 42,051 • Setting Suburb • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 69% • Retention rate 89% • Student-to-faculty ratio 27:1
Learn more about CSU Fullerton’s nursing program
San Francisco State University
San Francisco, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
San Francisco State University, part of the California State University system is a public institution in northern California. Over 23,000 undergraduates explore opportunities inside and outside of the classroom.
SF State’s motto is Experientia Docet — Experience Teaches. Graduates consistently say that hands-on learning was what helped them most when beginning their careers. Students apply their talents and classroom learning to real-world challenges through community-service learning, credit-earning internships, and participation with community-focused centers and institutes that address issues relating to health, education, the environment, business, child care, and underserved communities.
Acceptance rate 84% • Net price $14,757 • SAT Range 930-1130 • Students submitting SAT scores 89%
Total Undergrad Population 27,349 • Setting City: Large • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 55% • Retention rate 82% • Student-to-faculty ratio 22:1
San José State University
San José, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
Succeed in your personal and professional life with an education from San José State University. SJSU is a Public University in San José, California.
As one of the most transformative universities in the nation, San José State is ready for big change. As part of Transformation 2030, SJSU’s strategic plan, the campus community is dedicated to realizing the university’s potential as a nationally prominent urban public university. San José State provides a comprehensive university education, granting bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in 250 areas of study. With approximately 36,000 students and nearly 4,300 employees, SJSU is an essential partner in the economic, cultural and social development of Silicon Valley and California.
Acceptance rate 67% • Net price $15,995 • SAT Range 1010-1240 • Students submitting SAT scores 93%
Total Undergrad Population 36,208 • Setting City: Large • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 66% • Retention rate 86% • Student-to-faculty ratio 25:1
University of California, Irvine
Irvine, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
University of California, Irvine is home to 29,000 undergraduate students. With over 85 bachelor’s degrees offered UCI students have many academic options. UC Irvine is a public university in Orange County, California. In 1965, the University of California, Irvine was founded with a mission to catalyze the community and enhance lives through rigorous academics, cutting-edge research, and dedicated public service.
Acceptance rate 30% • Net price $13,106 • SAT Range 1230-1430 • Students submitting SAT scores 91%
Total Undergrad Population 36,303 • Setting City: Large • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 85% • Retention rate 94% • Student-to-faculty ratio 18:1
What it’s like to attend nursing school in California and other FAQ:
Cheapest nursing school in California
California State University, Fullerton has an average net price of $8,322 making it the least expensive nursing degree program in California that made our list.
Nursing college with lowest student debt in California
California State University, Fullerton has a median total debt after graduation of $14,000. This is the typical debt for a student who completed their undergraduate degree.
See The Top Nursing Colleges of Distinction of 2022-2023
Best Undergraduate Nursing Schools by State
Texas | Florida | New York | Pennsylvania | Illinois | Georgia | Ohio
Best California Colleges by Award
Best California Business Schools in 2023Best Engineering Schools in CaliforniaTop Undergraduate Education Programs in California
