California State University-Bakersfield Nursing Programs in Bakersfield, California

A Registered Nursing (RN) program, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN/ASN), prepares students to become entry-level registered nurses. The program typically spans two years and combines classroom instruction with hands-on clinical experience. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn nursing, pediatric nursing, and mental health nursing. Students develop essential nursing skills, such as medication administration, wound care, patient assessment, and communication. Clinical rotations provide opportunities to apply learned knowledge in real-world healthcare settings, working alongside experienced nurses and other healthcare professionals. A major goal of the program is to equip students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and professional behaviors to provide safe, effective, and patient-centered care. Successful completion of the program allows graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN examination, the national licensure exam for registered nurses. Upon passing the NCLEX-RN, graduates are eligible to practice as registered nurses.