Degree Required ADN or BSN 
License Required Registered Nursing License 
Fees License: ($300)
Renewal: ($190)
Job Outlook 16.7% growth from 2019-2029
Registered nurses (RNs) in California can look forward to bright professional futures. California has the highest number of employed RNs and the highest average salaries in the U.S. Additionally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the job growth for RNs in the state to reach 7% between 2019-2029, faster than the national average.
However, in order to legally work as an RN in California, you need to earn registered nursing licensure from the state. The licensure process ensures candidates meet the proper education, supervised experience, and examination requirements. This guide clearly outlines the steps needed to earn a California nursing license.
How to Become a Nurse in California
The path to pursuing nursing in California starts with education. Aspiring RNs need to earn an accredited degree to qualify for licensure, as accreditation ensures that academic programs provide students with a quality education. The California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) only considers candidates with accredited degrees.
A nursing degree can take anywhere from 2-4 years to complete, possibly longer for part-time students. Upon graduating, candidates must sit for the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX). After passing this exam, candidates can apply for BRN licensure.
Apply to an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or bachelor’s of science in nursing (BSN) program.
The path to becoming an RN begins with earning a two-year associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a four-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). Although both allow graduates to apply for RN licensure, the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN) encourages students to earn a BSN, as these graduates enter the workforce better equipped to handle the challenges of nursing.
Pass the NCLEX-RN exam to receive RN licensure.
After earning an ADN or BSN, RN candidates must pass the NCLEX-RN, which tests a candidate’s knowledge of nursing. Candidates take the exam on a computer, usually at a testing center. The BRN recommends that test-takers schedule the exam shortly after they graduate, instead of waiting a few months.
Apply for jobs at local hospitals.
When deciding where to apply, nurses should consider their desired role, salary, and benefits. Learn more about hospitals in California.
Advance your career with a graduate degree or certification.
The best way to advance a nursing career professionally or financially is by earning an advanced degree or becoming certified in a specialty. Either of these options will provide additional opportunities within the nursing field.
Maintain and renew licensure and certifications.
In order to maintain an active license in California, nurses must complete 30 hours of continuing education, which is required starting in their third year of nursing. Nurses must also pass a full background check; details regarding the process can be found on the BRN website.
The Complete Guide to How to Become a Registered Nurse
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California Board of Nursing
The BRN is the state body that licenses and regulates nurses. It is their responsibility to protect the health and safety of patients by ensuring the quality of the state's nurses. The board also has the authority to investigate any grievances and take disciplinary action if appropriate.
Furthermore, the BRN aids nurses who have suffered due to substance abuse or mental illness by providing support. The BRN is also responsible for providing appropriate resources for new and out-of-state nurses to become licensed within California through examination or endorsement. The board provides a pathway for nurses to renew their license so they can continue to practice in the state.
How to Get Your Nursing License in California
There are two licensing options for nurses who wish to work in California: licensure by examination and licensure by endorsement. Licensure by examination requires nursing applicants to pass the NCLEX-RN. Those who want to practice in California need to pass the exam, even if they have been employed in other states, as not all states require nurses to take the exam. In order to earn licensure by endorsement, applicants must have an active license from another state and pass the NCLEX-RN.
California also requires educational prerequisites including six semester or nine quarter hours of courses that develop communication skills (e.g., oral, written, and/or group). Applicants must also have at least 16 semester or 24 quarter hours related to the natural sciences (e.g., anatomy, physiology, microbiology, behavioral sciences, and/or social sciences).
Licensure for New Nurses
New nurses in California must fulfill various eligibility requirements prior to applying for a license. Once they are eligible, applicants can complete the steps needed to become a licensed nurse in California.
RN Licensure Eligibility Requirements
Prior to applying for a license to practice in the state, the BRN requires prospective nurses to meet several eligibility requirements:
- Associate, bachelor's, or master's degree in nursing from an accredited academic institution
- Academic prerequisites:
- Communication: oral, written, and/or group communication
- Natural Sciences: anatomy, physiology, microbiology, behavioral sciences, and/or social sciences
- Pass the NCLEX-RN ($300 fee for CA graduates; $350 for non-CA graduates; $750 for international graduates)
- Complete a fingerprint background check ($49)
- Apply for an interim permit to work in a supervised setting while awaiting NCLEX-RN results (application fee: $100); this is optional
Steps to Apply for an RN License
Once a nurse meets the eligibility requirements as laid out by the BRN, the next step would be to apply for an RN license:
- Complete the application for licensure by exam.
- Provide SSN, fingerprint card, passport-style photograph, and transcripts.
- If applicable, provide a request for accommodation of disabilities form and documents explaining previous disciplinary actions.
- International applicants need to provide the same materials as U.S. applicants with the inclusion of a license or diploma that allows them to practice nursing in their country.
Initial evaluation of the application can take 10-12 weeks; NCLEX-RN results take 2-3 weeks.
Resources
- Licensure by Exam: Online Application
- NCLEX-RN Information: Offers resources in connection to the NCLEX exam
- "NCLEX Using CAT" Video: Provides explanation of changes with regard to the NCLEX exam
- Pearson VUE: Information regarding the administration of the NCLEX exam
Licensure for Nurses From a Different State
In order to qualify for licensure by endorsement, the applicant must hold an active license from another state and meet certain academic prerequisites required by the BRN. Once those requirements are met, applicants can then apply for their California license.
Steps to Apply for an RN License
Listed below are the various steps applicants need to follow in order to earn their license by endorsement to practice in California.
- Complete the application for licensure by endorsement (application fee: $350).
- Provide SSN, fingerprint card, 2" x 2" passport-type photograph, and transcripts.
- Complete the verification of license form (expires 90 days from request date).
- Provide documents explaining previous disciplinary actions if applicable.
- Request temporary license to practice while awaiting approval of permanent license (optional).
Initial evaluation must be completed within 90 days of receiving the application
Resources
- Licensure by Endorsement: Online Application
Top Nursing Programs in California
How to Renew Your Nursing License in California
Nurses are required to renew their license and complete additional requirements to continue practicing every two years; upon renewal, applicants pay a $10 fee that goes toward the RN Education Fund. Licenses can be renewed electronically through BreEZe Online Services.
Requirements:
- Continuing Education: In California, RNs are required to complete at least 30 hours of continuing education prior to each renewal except within their first two licensed years. The educational provider must be approved by the BRN.
- Fingerprints: Renewal applicants must submit a full set of fingerprints to the DOJ and FBI.
- Discipline/Convictions: At the time of renewal, the applicant must disclose any discipline issues or if they have been convicted of a crime.
The cost of a license renewal varies depending upon nursing specializations. To renew as an RN, the fee is $190. However, fees for specializations can cost upwards of $750 if paid on time, whereas delinquent fees can range from $187-$1,125.
Salary and Employment Outlook for Nurses in California
According to BLS data, California employs over 300,000 registered nurses, making it the state with the highest employment of RNs in the country. Additionally, California ranks as the top-paying state for registered nurses. BLS data shows that RNs in the state make an annual mean wage of $120,560 — much higher than the national mean wage of $80,010.
In fact, the top 10 highest-paying metro areas for RNs in the U.S. are located in California. San Jose ranked as the best paying city with registered nurses earning a mean pay of about $155,980.
| Metropolitan Area | Mean Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $155,980 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward | $155,170 |
| Vallejo-Fairfield | $150,850 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Arden-Arcade | $137,040 |
| Salinas | $132,650 |
Best Hospitals to Work as Nurse in California
The following hospitals come from U.S. News & World Report's list of the best hospitals in California. When calculating these rankings, the publication considers factors including patient outcomes, patient experience, expert opinions, and other care-related indicators like nurse staffing and patient volume.
-
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
Nearly 2,400 nurses work at the Los Angeles-based Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. The hospital has 886 hospital beds and admits over 50,000 patients per year. Cedars-Sinai treats patients for diseases and illnesses within departments such as oncology, women's health, pediatrics, and orthopaedics. -
University of California, San Francisco Medical Center
The 2,500 nurses who work at UCSF Health help the 30,000 patients admitted to the hospital and 750,000 patients who visit each year. In fact, UCSF Health holds the well-respected Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. The medical center operates from several specialty clinics and two children's hospitals in San Francisco and Oakland. -
Scripps La Jolla Hospitals
With locations in San Diego and La Jolla, this hospital network operates as a $2.9 billion nonprofit medical center. Scripps offers services at 60 medical and surgical specialties, four emergency rooms, three urgent care centers, and a same-day walk-in express center. About 15,000 employees work at these many locations. -
University of California Davis Medical Center
Located in Sacramento, the UC Davis Medical Center serves 33 counties and six million residents in the state. This teaching hospital sees one million visits and 30,000 patient admissions each year. About 1,800 nurses and nurse practitioners work at UC Davis Health. According to the medical center's 2019 nurse report, about 9% of employed nurses held an ADN, 71% a BSN, and 18% an MSN. Additionally, about 57% of nurses hold a specialty certification. -
MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center
With locations in Long Beach, Laguna Hills, and Fountain Valley, MemorialCare offers services in joint replacement, weight loss surgery, imaging and radiology. About 4,000 RNs work at this medical center, and about half of them hold BSNs.
Resources for Nurses in California
-
California Nurses Association (CNA)
As the largest professional association of registered nurses, the CNA advocates for increased health care rights and works toward negotiating collective bargaining agreements for RNs. -
United Nurses Association of California (UNAC)
The UNAC fights for universal health coverage in order to provide immediate care for those who are suffering yet cannot afford medical care. Members of the UNAC volunteer their time to aid those who are susceptible to diseases in an attempt to improve community health outside of hospitals. -
California Nursing Students' Association (CNSA)
As a part of the National Student Nursing Association, the CNSA provides assistance to those who are searching for additional educational opportunities in order to develop their professional growth in various healthcare settings. The CNSA provides membership meetings and an annual convention in order to help those looking for additional professional growth. -
Association of California Nurse Leaders (ACNL)
The ACNL comprises leaders within the nursing community such as managers, directors, chief officers, and educators. The association provides continuing educational development as well as scholarship opportunities through their philanthropic program Circles of Giving.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a nurse in California?
The length of time it takes to become a licensed nurse in California can vary depending on where an individual is in the process. Initially, it takes 2-3 years to earn an associate degree and 4 years to earn a bachelor's degree. For those who have earned their bachelor's and want to complete a master's program, it takes an additional 1-2 years. After earning a degree and becoming eligible to apply for a license in California, it typically takes 10-12 weeks to process the application.
What is the fastest way to become a nurse in California?
Those interested in becoming a nurse in California in the shortest amount of time should pursue an associate degree in nursing, as this can be completed within a two-year timeframe. Upon completion of the program, passing the NCLEX-RN and applying for a license can take an additional 10-12 weeks.
Can a nurse live comfortably in California?
Despite the cost of living in California being rather high, the BLS identifies the mean wage for an RN in the state to be approximately $120,560. However, in choosing to live away from pricier areas such as San Francisco or Los Angeles, nurses can live comfortably in a state that offers one of the highest average salaries within the profession.
Are nurses in demand in California?
According to Projections Central, which analyzes state employment projections, registered nursing positions in California are predicted to increase by 16.7% between 2019-2029. This projected demand places California as one of the top states for nursing employment.
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FAQs
What are the requirements to become a nurse in California? ›
If you are looking to become a nurse in California, you can begin by earning an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a diploma in practical nursing. With either of these credentials, you can pass the NCLEX-PN exam, earn your license, and work as a licensed practical or licensed vocational nurse.
How long does it take to become a RN in California? ›Takes 4 years. Also referred to as Baccalaureate degree. Offered at many California State Universities and some private colleges. Prepares you to provide registered nursing care in numerous settings and to move to administrative and leadership positions.
Does California accept foreign nurses? ›Passing the Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS) examination is not required to be licensed in California. However, the Board will accept official copies of your nursing transcripts (including the clinical portion of your training) from this organization.
Can you become a nurse online in California? ›California offers several accredited online nursing programs. California State University - Dominguez Hills offers both an online RN to BSN and an online MSN program and is one of the most affordable colleges for nursing.
What is the fastest way to become a nurse in California? ›Those interested in becoming a nurse in California in the shortest amount of time should pursue an associate degree in nursing, as this can be completed within a two-year timeframe. Upon completion of the program, passing the NCLEX-RN and applying for a license can take an additional 10-12 weeks.
Which nursing program is easiest to get into in California? ›What is the easiest nursing school to get into in California? California State University—Bakersfield has an acceptance rate of 78%, which is higher than other schools in the state.
How much does a new RN make in California? ›How much does a New Graduate Registered Nurse make in California? The average New Graduate Registered Nurse salary in California is $74,536 as of September 26, 2022, but the range typically falls between $66,862 and $85,208.
How much money does a registered nurse make in California? ›RNs in California make the top salaries in the nation, earning 49.8% higher than the national average. California RNs earn an average yearly salary of $124,000 and an average hourly pay rate close to $60.
Why are nurses paid so much in California? ›High demand, the high cost of living and union power underlie the higher salaries of California's registered nurses. Burger said the nurse's union has also played a role in assuring that nurses have access to pension plans and that they retire with health benefits.
How do I register as an international nurse in USA? ›- Meet the educational requirements.
- Pass an English language proficiency test, if mandated.
- Obtain credential evaluation.
- Pass your National Council Licensing Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX – RN)
- Find a nursing recruiting agency.
- Apply and obtain an RN immigrant visa/green card.
How do I get a US nursing license? ›
- Meet the educational requirements.
- Complete a foreign-educated nurses (FEN) course.
- Take and pass an English language proficiency test, if mandated.
- Pass your National Council Licensing Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX – RN)
- Obtain credential evaluation.
Nurses who attended nursing programs in CA need to have completed at least 800 clinical hours that run concurrently with theory (didactic) coursework.
What is the shortest nursing program? ›Certified Nursing Assistant
A CNA program is a fast-paced program that only takes a couple of months to fully complete. After graduation, students can enter the field right away, assisting nurses with patient work in a wide variety of settings.
The short answer is an emphatic yes! It is possible to get a nursing degree online. You can earn a variety of nursing degrees online from Ohio State, ranging from a Bachelor of Science in Nursing to a Doctor of Nursing Practice.
Is it worth it to be a nurse in California? ›Becoming a Registered Nurse is a solid career choice when it comes to job security, salary potential, and fulfillment. For nurses who plan to work in California, the rewards and opportunities are even more promising. The average registered nurse salary in California is often higher than any other state!
How much does it cost to become a nurse in California? ›| School Name | NCLEX Pass Rate | Total Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Victor Valley College | 95% | $5,549 |
| Golden West College | 92% | $5,577 |
| San Joaquin Delta College | 92% | $5,517 |
| Cerritos College | 88% | $5,539 |
Nursing requires more dedication than many other careers. However, it's one of the most rewarding jobs you can have. Nursing school is notoriously difficult—and it's not for everyone. Graduate school is challenging as well.
Can you become a nurse without a degree? ›While nursing is a practical, hands-on profession, it also requires special technical competencies and clinical analysis skills that will potentially save people's lives. As such, you cannot become a Nurse without a degree in nursing.
Is 48 too old to become a nurse? ›Even if you have the disposition and drive to enter a new career in the nursing field, you might be asking yourself, “Am I too old to become a nurse?” The answer to this question is no. Nurses come from all walks of life and all age groups.
What state is the easiest to become a nurse? ›- Maine: 1-2 weeks.
- Maryland: 2-3 days.
- Missouri: 2 weeks.
- Nevada: 1-2 weeks.
- North Carolina: 1-2 weeks.
- North Dakota: 1-2 weeks.
- Texas: 2 weeks.
- Vermont: 3-5 business days.
What is the easiest nurse to become? ›
The easiest role you can have as a nurse is that of a licensed practical nurse (LPN) or licensed vocational nurse (LVN). LPNs and LVNs work under registered nurses (RNs), providing basic nursing care.
How much do RN make at Kaiser in California? ›How much does a Registered Nurse make at Kaiser Permanente in California? Average Kaiser Permanente Registered Nurse hourly pay in California is approximately $70.21, which is 78% above the national average.
What state has highest RN salary? ›California tops our list of the highest-paying states, where registered nurses make $124,000 per year on average. Following it is Hawaii, at $106,530, and Oregon at $98,6300. Washington, D.C., while not technically a state, also ranks among the top-paying U.S. regions with an average RN salary of $98,540.
What is the highest paid nurse in California? ›A certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) is one of the highest-paid nursing specialties.
What kind of nurses get paid most? ›- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist – $202,000.
- Nursing Administrator – $120,000.
- Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse – $120,000.
- General Nurse Practitioner – $118,000.
- Critical Care Nurse – $118,000.
- Certified Nurse Midwife – $114,000.
- Informatics Nurse – $102,000.
If you're a full-time Nurse in the private sector, you will tend to work between 36 and 40 hours a week. A standard full-time working week for NHS Nurses and other NHS professionals is 37.5 hours a week.
How much do BSN make in California? ›How much does a BSN make in California? As of Oct 16, 2022, the average annual pay for the BSN jobs category in California is $103,150 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $49.59 an hour. This is the equivalent of $1,983/week or $8,595/month.
What is the best state to live in as a nurse? ›| Rank | State Name | Cost of Living Index |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | California | 142.4 |
| 2 | Nevada | 113 |
| 3 | Massachusetts | 108.8 |
| 4 | Washington | 129.9 |
The San Jose — Sunnyvale — Santa Clara, California, metro area pays RNs the highest-average salary in the United States. According to BLS data, RNs in San Jose — Sunnyvale — Santa Clara metro area make $155,230 annually, which is $72,480 higher than the national average.
How much do nurses make an hour starting out in California? ›...
Registered nurse salary range in California.
| Annual Salary | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|
| 25th Percentile | $98,960 | $47 |
Can I work as a nurse in USA without NCLEX? ›
Non-NCLEX nurses can still apply for plenty of job opportunities in the USA. While NCLEX certification is required for nursing positions in many hospitals and clinics, there are many other settings where non-NCLEX nurses can find employment.
Do nurses get green card easily? ›A registered nurse can get a green card to come to the US more easily than almost any other professional.
Is NCLEX hard to pass? ›The NCLEX is hard. You might have gotten through nursing school with marathon all-nighters, but last-minute cramming is not going to be enough to pass the NCLEX. In fact, cramming before a test often has the opposite effect, leading to: Mixing up the facts you've already learned.
Which state has the easiest NCLEX exam? ›- #1 Connecticut. ...
- #2 Montana. ...
- #3 New York. ...
- #4 Northern Mariana Islands. ...
- #5 South Dakota.
But, due to the nursing shortage in the U.S., many hospitals realize they'll still need nurses in a year's time and are willing to go through the sponsorship process with a staffing agency. Most staffing agencies make the visa sponsorship process as painless as possible.
How much does the NCLEX exam cost? ›NCLEX-RN Exam and Licensure Fees
The cost to take the NCLEX-RN® exam is $200. Additional licensure fees are determined by the individual State Boards of Nursing. Send your completed test application and fee to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.
In the meantime, you can register again for the Pearson Vue NCLEX. California has indefinite eligibility ( you can take the NCLEX as many times as you want). All you need to do is to submit your picture, check and the 1-page repeat/apply application. The application is only valid for 1 year.
How hard is nursing school compared to other degrees? ›But nursing school is notoriously difficult. Most nursing programs require high GPAs and impressive scores in math, chemistry, biology, psychology, and other demanding subjects. It's also extremely fulfilling.
What accreditation is best for nursing? ›What are the main accrediting bodies for nursing programs? The two main accreditation bodies in the United States are as follows: The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
What is the fastest way to become a nurse? ›If you're itching to enter the field, the fastest way to become a nurse would be taking the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) route. While you wouldn't actually be an RN, you could complete a Practical Nursing program and be well on your way to launching a nursing career in as few as 12 months.
Can I study nursing for 6 months? ›
SHORT COURSES (6 MONTH IN-SERVICE CERTIFICATE PROGRAMMES)
As an Enrolled Nurse or Registered Nurse, you can develop your career by specialising in one or more post-basic fields of healthcare.
1) Los Angeles Harbor College, Wilmington
Los Angeles Harbor College (LAHC) is part of the Los Angeles Community College District.
Proper time management is important in all areas of life but when it comes to online nursing school – especially online or hybrid nursing programs – poor time management (or lack thereof) can make nursing school a lot more difficult than it already is.
How do I get into nursing without qualifications? ›If you have GCSEs at grade C or above, you can take the Access to HE Diploma route, which will allow you to get into university without A Levels. The Access to HE Diploma (nursing) includes; Three modules on Study Skills. 16 modules on notions of biology, physiology, anatomy, social care and health.
Do employers care where you went to nursing school? ›The main aspect that employers care about is whether the nursing school you went to is accredited or not. There are some hospitals that might indeed have some preferences in regards to where their nurses got their degrees from.
What is the fastest way to become a nurse in California? ›Those interested in becoming a nurse in California in the shortest amount of time should pursue an associate degree in nursing, as this can be completed within a two-year timeframe. Upon completion of the program, passing the NCLEX-RN and applying for a license can take an additional 10-12 weeks.
How much does a new RN make in California? ›How much does a New Graduate Registered Nurse make in California? The average New Graduate Registered Nurse salary in California is $74,536 as of September 26, 2022, but the range typically falls between $66,862 and $85,208.
How long does it take to get a California nursing license? ›Initial evaluation of an application must be completed within 90 days of receipt of application. (16 CCR § 1410.1.) If you requested and paid for an Interim Permit, it will be issued within 24-48 hours after your exam application has been approved.
Is it worth it to be a nurse in California? ›Becoming a Registered Nurse is a solid career choice when it comes to job security, salary potential, and fulfillment. For nurses who plan to work in California, the rewards and opportunities are even more promising. The average registered nurse salary in California is often higher than any other state!
What qualifications do you need to become a nurse? ›You'll typically need level 3 and maths and English qualification/s to start an RNDA. If you have a level 5 qualification as a nursing associate or assistant practitioner, your apprenticeship might be called a 'top up' RNDA or 'conversion' to registered nurse course.
How much does it cost to become a nurse in California? ›
| School Name | NCLEX Pass Rate | Total Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Victor Valley College | 95% | $5,549 |
| Golden West College | 92% | $5,577 |
| San Joaquin Delta College | 92% | $5,517 |
| Cerritos College | 88% | $5,539 |
In the past, in order to work as a registered nurse in most states, you would have had to earn at least an associate's degree in nursing (ADN). Over time, many states have begun requiring that RNs hold at least a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in order to qualify for their RN license.
Is 46 too old to become a nurse? ›The answer is that going back to school to earn your nursing degree is an incredibly rewarding experience; you're never too old to become a nurse!
Why are nurses in California paid so much? ›High demand, the high cost of living and union power underlie the higher salaries of California's registered nurses. Burger said the nurse's union has also played a role in assuring that nurses have access to pension plans and that they retire with health benefits.
How much does a new RN make in California? ›How much does a New Graduate Registered Nurse make in California? The average New Graduate Registered Nurse salary in California is $74,536 as of September 26, 2022, but the range typically falls between $66,862 and $85,208.
Can I become a nurse without a degree? ›While nursing is a practical, hands-on profession, it also requires special technical competencies and clinical analysis skills that will potentially save people's lives. As such, you cannot become a Nurse without a degree in nursing. This is the most important out of the qualifications needed to be a Nurse.
Can I train to be a nurse at 60? ›There is no upper age limit to start nurse training but you should discuss any concerns that you might have about your suitability for training with the universities offering courses.
Is nursing a hard degree? ›Nursing school is so much harder than you think
It's definitely not easy so if anyone tells you that nursing it's easy, it's not at all - there is a lot of people that drop out, mainly because it's not what they thought it would be.
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist – $202,000.
- Nursing Administrator – $120,000.
- Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse – $120,000.
- General Nurse Practitioner – $118,000.
- Critical Care Nurse – $118,000.
- Certified Nurse Midwife – $114,000.
- Informatics Nurse – $102,000.
- University of California-Los Angeles. ...
- University of California-Irvine. ...
- California State University-Fullerton. ...
- California State University-Long Beach. ...
- San Diego State University. ...
- California State University-Chico. ...
- California State University-San Bernardino. ...
- California State University-Fresno.
Is it hard to get into nursing school in California? ›
Despite the high demand for more nurses, students at some California community colleges are finding it difficult to get accepted into nursing programs.
Is RN and BSN the same thing? ›BSN, ADN, RN: The Difference in The Letters
BSN means bachelor of science in nursing, ADN means associate degree in nursing, and RN means registered nurse. BSN is a diploma from a 4-year program: A person with a BSN has graduated from a four-year nursing program at a college, university, or nursing school.
| Nursing Career | 2019 Mean Salary |
|---|---|
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $30,720 |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurse (LPN/LVN) | $48,500 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | $77,460 |
| Nurse Practitioners (NP) | $111,840 |
Depending on the specific nursing program that you enroll in, it could take anywhere from 16 months to four years to become a registered nurse. “I chose to earn my BSN, which takes four years,” says ChiChi Akanegbu, who completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Regis College as a part of the Class of 2020.