Are you searching for the best nursing schools in Los Angeles, California? Whether you're starting your journey in healthcare or advancing your nursing career, finding the right nursing program is essential. In or near Los Angeles, California, you’ll find a range of accredited nursing programs, from entry-level certificates to advanced nursing degrees.
Explore nursing schools in Los Angeles, California to choose the right program for your future in nursing.
Los Angeles, California Nursing Degree Programs
RN to BSN Programs in Los Angeles, California
RN to BSN programs in Los Angeles, California are tailored for registered nurses who want to expand their skills, advance in their careers, or pursue graduate education. These programs can often be completed in 12 to 18 months and focus on leadership, research, and community health. Many schools offer flexible online formats to accommodate working nurses.
RN to BSN and RN to MSN Bridge Programs by Specialization in Los Angeles, California
Bridge programs in Los Angeles, California provide registered nurses with clear academic pathways to higher degrees. RN to BSN programs help build leadership and public health expertise, while RN to MSN bridge programs allow for specialization in roles such as family nurse practitioner, nurse educator, or clinical nurse leader. These programs are designed to fit into the schedules of working professionals through evening, weekend, and online formats.
Marian Health Careers Center-Los Angeles Campus Nursing Programs in Los Angeles, California
Comprehensive Curriculum: Blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills in areas such as medical-surgical nursing, maternal-newborn care, pediatrics, and mental health.
Hands-on Clinical Experience: Provides extensive clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health organizations.
NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation: Offers dedicated resources and strategies to prepare students for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).
Experienced Faculty: Features instructors with extensive clinical experience and expertise in nursing education.
State-of-the-Art Simulation Labs: Provides opportunities to practice nursing skills in a safe and controlled environment using advanced simulation technology.
Career Advancement Opportunities: Graduates are prepared for entry-level RN positions and further educational opportunities, such as BSN completion.
Patient-Centered Care Focus: Emphasizes the importance of providing compassionate, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based care to patients of all ages and backgrounds.
Nursing Schools in Los Angeles, California
Address: 3325 Wilshire Blvd Ste 1010, Los Angeles, California 90010
Los Angeles County College of Nursing and Allied Health Nursing Programs in Los Angeles, California
Comprehensive curriculum covering anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and medical-surgical nursing.
Extensive clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health centers throughout Los Angeles County.
Emphasis on patient-centered care, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice.
NCLEX-RN preparation integrated throughout the program, including practice exams and review sessions.
Experienced faculty with diverse backgrounds in nursing practice and education.
Opportunities for simulation-based learning to enhance clinical skills and decision-making.
Strong focus on developing leadership and communication skills essential for professional nursing practice.
Nursing Schools in Los Angeles, California
Address: 1237 N. Mission Rd., Los Angeles, California 90033-1084
Charles R Drew University of Medicine and Science BSN, DNP, FNP, LVN, MSN, NP, PMHNP, RN, RN to BSN Nursing Programs in Los Angeles, California
Focus on underserved communities: A common thread in nursing programs at Charles R. Drew University is a dedication to serving vulnerable populations in Los Angeles and beyond.
RN to BSN Bridge: Offers a pathway for Associate Degree Nurses (RNs) to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, advancing their careers.
Advanced Practice Specializations: MSN and DNP programs often provide specialization options, such as Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) or Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
Leadership and Research Opportunities: Advanced nursing programs (MSN, DNP) typically include coursework and experiences focused on leadership, research, and evidence-based practice.
LVN to RN Pathway: While not always directly offered by universities, partnerships with community colleges may allow LVNs to pursue RN education through transfer programs.
Clinical Experiences: Emphasis on hands-on clinical practice in diverse healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and community health centers.
NP Preparation: MSN and DNP pathways designed to prepare graduates for certification as Nurse Practitioners, offering a broad scope of practice.
Nursing Schools in Los Angeles, California
Address: 1731 E 120th St, Los Angeles, California 90059
California State University-Los Angeles BSN, MSN, RN Nursing Programs in Los Angeles, California
BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing): Focuses on comprehensive nursing care, leadership, and critical thinking skills necessary for entry-level professional nursing practice. Graduates are prepared to take the NCLEX-RN exam.
MSN (Master of Science in Nursing): Offers advanced practice specializations (e.g., Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Educator, Nurse Administrator) to enhance expertise and leadership roles within healthcare.
RN (Registered Nurse): The foundational credential, often obtained via an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and passing the NCLEX-RN exam. While not a program itself, RNs often seek BSN or MSN degrees for career advancement and specialization.
Emphasis on Diverse Populations: Programs typically emphasize culturally competent care, addressing the specific health needs of the diverse communities in Los Angeles.
Clinical Rotations: Extensive clinical rotations in various healthcare settings (hospitals, clinics, community health centers) provide hands-on experience.
Faculty Expertise: Experienced faculty members, often practicing nurses themselves, bring real-world knowledge and mentorship to the classroom.
Research Opportunities: Opportunities to participate in nursing research projects, contributing to the advancement of nursing science.
Nursing Schools in Los Angeles, California
Address: 5151 State University Dr, Los Angeles, California 90032-8506
1. What types of nursing programs are available in Los Angeles, California?
Nursing schools in Los Angeles, California offer various programs, including:
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) programs – Entry-level training for nursing assistants.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) programs – Typically one year of training.
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) – A two-year program that prepares you for the NCLEX-RN exam and RN licensure.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – A four-year degree that provides more career opportunities and higher earning potential.
RN-to-BSN programs – Designed for current RNs who want to earn a BSN.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Advanced education for specialized nursing roles, such as nurse practitioner or nurse educator.
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) – The highest level of clinical nursing education.
2. How do I choose the best nursing school in Los Angeles, California?
When selecting a nursing school, consider factors like accreditation, NCLEX pass rates, clinical training opportunities, tuition costs, and program flexibility (online, hybrid, or in-person).
3. Why is nursing school accreditation important?
Accreditation ensures your program meets high educational standards. Nursing programs should be accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) or the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Attending an accredited school is required for licensure and financial aid eligibility.
4. How do I check if a nursing program in Los Angeles, California is accredited?
You can verify accreditation by visiting the school’s website, checking the ACEN or CCNE directories, or contacting the State Board of Nursing in Los Angeles, California.
5. How long does it take to complete a nursing program?
The duration depends on the type of program:
CNA program: A few weeks to a few months.
LPN/LVN program: About 12 months.
ADN program: 2 years.
BSN program: 4 years.
RN-to-BSN program: 12-24 months.
MSN program: 2 years (after BSN).
DNP program: 3-4 years.
6. Can I complete a nursing program online?
Some programs, such as RN-to-BSN, MSN, and DNP, offer online coursework. However, pre-licensure programs (like ADN and BSN) require in-person clinical training.
7. What is the NCLEX, and why is it important?
The NCLEX-PN (for LPNs) and NCLEX-RN (for RNs) are national exams required for licensure. Graduating from an accredited program is necessary to sit for these exams.
8. What financial aid options are available for nursing students?
Students enrolled in accredited nursing programs may qualify for:
Federal financial aid (Pell Grants, loans, and work-study programs).
State grants and scholarships.
Nursing-specific scholarships.
Employer tuition assistance programs.
9. What are the job opportunities for nurses in Los Angeles, California?
Nurses in Los Angeles, California can work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, home healthcare, and specialized care facilities. Advanced degrees open opportunities in leadership, education, and specialized nursing roles like nurse practitioner or nurse anesthetist.
10. How much do nurses earn in Los Angeles, California?
Salaries vary based on education, experience, and location. On average:
CNA: $30,000 – $40,000 per year.
LPN/LVN: $45,000 – $55,000 per year.
RN (ADN or BSN): $65,000 – $90,000 per year.
MSN-prepared nurses: $90,000 – $120,000 per year.
Nurse practitioners and APRNs: $100,000 – $150,000 per year.