2026 Best Nursing Schools in San Diego

#1

San Diego City College

San Diego, CA - Public 2-Year - sdcity.edu

Associate - Associate Degree Nurse (Generic)

Campus Based - Visit Website

San Diego City College's Associate Degree Nurse program prepares students for a dynamic healthcare career. The comprehensive two-year curriculum combines rigorous nursing theory with hands-on clinical experiences in local hospitals and healthcare facilities. Graduates earn an Associate of Science degree and become eligible to take the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, positioning them for entry-level nursing roles in diverse healthcare settings like hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

  • Two-year nursing curriculum
  • State board approved program
  • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
  • Multiple entry pathway options
  • Supervised clinical experiences
#2

Grossmont College

El Cajon, CA - Public 2-Year - grossmont.edu

Associate - LVN to RN Transition Program

Campus Based - Visit Website

Grossmont College's LVN to RN Transition Program in El Cajon, CA, prepares licensed vocational nurses for national licensure as registered nurses. This campus-based program blends classroom learning with hands-on hospital and health agency training. Ideal for LVNs aiming to advance their careers, it focuses on critical, acute, and chronic care settings. Prerequisites may apply. The program duration varies, offering a tailored pathway for military-trained healthcare personnel. Prospective students should consult with a counselor for a personalized education plan.

  • Campus-based program
  • Prepares for national licensure
  • Combines classroom and practical training
  • For LVNs advancing to RN
  • Includes military-trained healthcare options
  • Prerequisites may apply
  • Personalized education plans available
#3

Palomar College

San Marcos, CA - Public 2-Year - www2.palomar.edu

Associate - Associate in Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Palomar College in San Marcos, CA, offers an Associate in Science in Nursing (ASN) program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam. The program blends theoretical knowledge with clinical experiences, adhering to QSEN standards. It spans four semesters post-prerequisites, covering fundamentals to advanced medical/surgical nursing. Options include a Generic RN path and an LVN to RN route. The curriculum emphasizes holistic care, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice. Graduates are equipped for diverse healthcare settings. Admissions require prerequisite coursework, and the program is campus-based, fostering hands-on learning in a supportive environment.

  • Campus-based program
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • QSEN standards curriculum
  • Four semesters post-prerequisites
  • LVN to RN option available
  • Holistic care focus
  • Evidence-based practice emphasis
  • Diverse clinical experiences
  • Critical thinking development
  • Supports diverse healthcare settings

Associate - Associate in Arts in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Palomar College in San Marcos, CA, offers an Associate in Arts in Nursing program designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam. This campus-based program blends theoretical knowledge with clinical experiences, adhering to QSEN standards. It's ideal for those seeking entry-level nursing positions in diverse healthcare settings. The curriculum covers fundamentals, pediatrics, behavioral health, obstetrics, gerontology, and advanced medical/surgical nursing. Prerequisites and general education are required before starting the four-semester nursing coursework. Financial aid and support services are available to eligible students.

  • Campus-based program
  • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
  • QSEN standards curriculum
  • Four-semester coursework
  • Diverse clinical experiences
  • Prerequisites required
  • Financial aid available
  • Support services offered
  • Focus on critical thinking
  • Holistic nursing philosophy
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#4

Southwestern College

Chula Vista, CA - Public 2-Year - swccd.edu

Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Southwestern College in Chula Vista, CA, offers an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program designed to prepare students for a rewarding career as a Registered Nurse. This program combines humanities, natural and social sciences, and nursing theory with clinical practice, ensuring graduates are ready to take the NCLEX-RN exam. With a focus on critical thinking and patient care across diverse populations, students gain hands-on experience in various healthcare settings. Prerequisites include science courses with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and a TEAS test score of at least 62%. The program's estimated cost ranges from $8,474 to $8,997, with financial aid options available.

  • 2-year program duration
  • Campus-based learning
  • TEAS test required
  • Minimum 2.5 GPA in sciences
  • Clinical practice included
  • NCLEX-RN exam eligibility
  • Financial aid available
  • Diverse patient care focus
  • Hands-on healthcare experience
  • Critical thinking emphasis
#5

California State University-San Marcos

San Marcos, CA - Public 4-Year - csusm.edu

Bachelor's - Traditional BSN

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (TBSN) at California State University-San Marcos is perfect for those starting their journey in nursing. This program prepares students for licensure as a Registered Nurse in California and certification as a public health nurse. It's designed for first-time freshmen or transfer students, offering a comprehensive plan of study over 4 years for freshmen and 3 years for transfers. The program is cohort-based, full-time, with courses mostly during the day and clinical placements in San Diego and Riverside Counties. Costs vary by semester, with detailed tuition and fees available. Admission is direct for eligible applicants.

  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • Direct entry for freshmen/transfers
  • 4 years for freshmen
  • 3 years for transfers
  • Cohort-based program
  • Full-time study
  • Daytime courses
  • Clinical placements vary
  • San Diego/Riverside Counties
  • Fall start only

Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Accelerated BSN program at California State University-San Marcos is designed for individuals with a degree in another field, offering a fast-track to a nursing career. This intensive, 5-semester program requires completion of 67 semester units, blending didactic and clinical coursework. Graduates earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, qualifying them to take the NCLEX-RN for licensure. With cohorts in San Marcos and Temecula, the program caters to diverse schedules. Prerequisites must be completed beforehand. Ideal for career changers, this program opens doors to rewarding opportunities in healthcare, emphasizing hands-on experience and academic excellence.

  • 5-semester program
  • 67 semester units
  • Campus-based learning
  • NCLEX-RN eligibility
  • For degree holders
  • San Marcos and Temecula cohorts
  • Didactic and clinical coursework
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • No prior LVN/RN coursework needed
  • Prerequisites required

Bachelor's - Veteran BSN Pathway

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Veteran to BSN Pathway at California State University-San Marcos is designed for veterans transitioning to civilian nursing careers. This intensive five-semester program leverages military experience for credit, offering a streamlined path to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. With a focus on hands-on clinical training, students prepare for RN licensure. The program features a cohort model, fostering strong peer support. Financial aid and military benefits are available, making this an accessible option for veterans seeking a rewarding healthcare career.

  • Intensive five-semester program.
  • Cohort-based learning model.
  • Credit for military experience.
  • Prepares for RN licensure.
  • Financial aid eligible.
  • Military benefits applicable.
  • Hands-on clinical training.
  • Full-time commitment required.
  • 67 units for completion.
  • Starts Fall and Spring.
Show 2 More Programs ˅
*Data compiled from: IPEDS 2024 survey, NCES. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Entry-Level ADN, BSN, MSN Programs in San Diego

The San Diego area boasts several schools offering direct-entry Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), Bachelor's of Science in Nursing (BSN), and Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs. No matter where you are on your journey to becoming a nurse, there's a program to help you reach your goals.

LVN to RN Programs

Licensed vocational nurses are experienced in providing primary patient care in various healthcare settings, and many LVNs choose to build upon these skills and become registered nurses. Specialized LVN to RN programs, like the one at San Diego City College, provide a pathway for LVNs to earn their associate’s degree and pass the RN licensing exam.

ADN Programs

Two-year ADN programs are typically available at community colleges throughout the city. San Diego City College, for example, offers an ADN program that requires 62 total units and includes courses in Medical-Surgical Nursing, Maternal-Child Health Nursing, and more. Graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN examination for nursing licensure.

Direct-Entry BSN Programs

These four-year degrees are considered the gold standard in nursing education and are often required for hospital positions. Direct-entry programs mean the student does not have to hold an RN license or nursing degree before starting the program. San Diego State University offers a traditional BSN with a unique international experience component that students can fulfill via study abroad. Most accredited BSN programs in San Diego are found at traditional colleges and universities. Required courses may include Pathophysiology, Clinical Pharmacology, and more.

Learn more about California Accelerated BSN Programs

Direct-Entry MSN Programs

Direct-entry MSN programs, often called Master's Entry Programs in Nursing (MEPN), are designed for those with a bachelor's degree in another field. These programs can generally be completed in less than two years. While not as common as other program pathways, San Diego does offer one through the University of San Diego. Their program includes courses in Health Assessment, Evidence-Based Practice, and more, and takes 21 months to complete.

Find out more about California Accelerated MSN Programs

RN to BSN/MSN Programs in San Diego

Licensed RNs who have earned a diploma or ADN and are looking to obtain higher degrees can enroll in "bridge" programs. This allows the nurse to build upon their nursing knowledge and credits them for the courses they have already completed, making the programs quicker. RN to BSN and RN to MSN pathways are the most common bridge programs.

RN to BSN Programs

RN to BSN programs in San Diego allow nurses to complete a bachelor's degree in nursing in less than two years. This type of program is commonly found online so that busy RNs can fit in their studies. California State University - San Marcos offers a fully online RN to BSN program designed to be completed in 16 months. The total cost of the program is currently $9,880.

Learn more about California RN to BSN Programs

RN to MSN Programs

The RN to MSN program typically has two options: a pathway for those who hold an ADN and one for those who hold a BSN. This bridge program can take 2-3 years to complete depending on the entry point. While RN to MSN programs can be offered online, San Diego's Point Loma Nazarene University offers a traditional program that meets one night a week and select Saturdays to accommodate working RNs.

List of RN to BSN/MSN Programs

San Diego, CA

National University

  • RN to BSN - Bachelor of Science in Nursing - RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online program
    • Can complete in 11 months
    • No prerequisite courses required
    • Four- and eight-week classes
    • Start any month of year
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Potential $4,800 transfer scholarship
    • California Public Health Nurse Certificate option

San Diego State University

  • RN to BSN - Registered Nurse-Bachelor of Science (RN-BS) in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 12-15 month program duration
    • Hybrid, mostly online format
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • 26 nursing course units
    • Assigned clinical sites
    • Up to 70 transfer credits
    • Comprehensive nursing curriculum
    • Advanced professional development

San Marcos, CA

California State University-San Marcos

  • RN to BSN - ADN/RN to BSN

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online program
    • Part-time, 3-semester track
    • 6 eight-week course sessions
    • For licensed California RNs
    • Offered through Extended Learning
*NCES IPEDS database, 2024 release. Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

Advanced RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs in San Diego

Advanced programs are available for San Diego nurses who are ready to further their nursing careers. This includes MSN, Post-Graduate Certificates, and DNP programs for those who wish to become nurse practitioners.

MSN Programs

A traditional MSN degree typically requires a BSN and takes around two years to complete. San Diego is home to many MSN programs where students can specialize in areas such as Women's Health & Midwifery, Nursing Informatics, Adult-Gerontology, and more. The University of San Diego offers an MSN program with many specialization tracks. Courses may include Introduction to Health Care Delivery Systems and Theory of Nursing Education.

Learn more about California Nurse Practitioner Programs

Post-Master's Certificate Programs

Post-graduate certificates are an excellent choice for MSN-educated nurses who want to switch specialties (for example, a Family Nurse Practitioner who wishes to become a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner). Post-grad certificate programs are often shorter and cheaper than traditional degree programs, and many are delivered online. National University offers San Diego nursing students certificate programs in Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialties.

Learn more about California Post-Graduate Certificate Programs

DNP Programs

One of the highest nursing degrees obtainable is the doctorate nursing degree. The University of San Diego offers both BSN to DNP and MSN to DNP program pathways. The length of these programs hinges on the nurse's prior level of education. Specialization options include Family Nurse Practitioner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and several dual specialization options.

Learn more about California DNP Programs

List of APRN (MSN, DNP, & NP) Programs in San Diego

San Diego, CA

Alliant International University-San Diego

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing, Nurse Executive

    Online Learning - Website

    • 36-credit online program.
    • Two-year completion time.
    • 500 hours clinical experience.
    • Prepares for multiple certifications.
    • Accredited by CCNE and WSCUC.
    • Aligns with AACN and AONL standards.
    • Focus on leadership and management.
    • Includes healthcare policy training.

National University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • CCNE Accredited Program
    • 4-week course format
    • Year-round enrollment availability
    • Online with clinical immersions
    • 180-240 clinical practice hours
    • Prepares for ANCC/AANP certification
    • Requires BSN degree
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nursing Informatics - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Master of Science in Nursing.
    • Nursing Informatics concentration.
    • Hybrid program format.
    • Focus on health informatics.
    • Electronic health records training.
    • Clinical decision support systems.
    • Health data analytics included.
    • Prepares for leadership roles.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing–Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Lifespan - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid online and in-person format.
    • Average completion in 19 months.
    • No application fee.
    • Year-round enrollment available.
    • Requires BSN for admission.
    • Eligible for ANCC or AANP certification.
    • Focuses on lifespan mental healthcare.
    • Includes psychopharmacology training.
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice in Executive Leadership

    Concentration: Executive Leadership - Online Learning - Website

    • 100% Online Delivery
    • 30 Months to Complete
    • 13 Total Courses
    • 46 Credit Hours
    • No GRE/GMAT Required
    • CCNE Accredited Program
    • Requires Active RN License
    • Minimum 3.0 MSN GPA
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online doctoral nursing program
    • Advanced nursing administration focus
    • Prepares healthcare leadership roles
    • Addresses nursing practice gaps
    • Designed for master's nurses

Point Loma Nazarene University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Fully online asynchronous format
    • Optional synchronous online classes
    • 2-2.5 year completion time
    • $820 per unit tuition
    • 4 APRN specialty tracks
    • 500-750 clinical hours
    • Classes of 15-20 students
    • One in-person course option
  • BSN to MSN - Nursing, M.S.

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Fully online asynchronous format
    • 2.5 years program length
    • $820 per unit cost
    • 500-750 clinical hours
    • National certification eligible
    • Option for in-person classes
    • One year RN experience required
    • 43-54 total graduate units
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice, Clinical Nurse Specialist

    Concentration: Adult-Gerontology CNS - Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online asynchronous program
    • 1000 total clinical hours
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Adult-Gerontology CNS specialty track
    • Optional synchronous sessions
    • California Board of Nursing approved
    • MSN or BSN entry pathways
    • Small class sizes (15-20 students)
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice, Clinical Nurse Specialist

    Concentration: Adult-Gerontology CNS with Women's Health Specialty - Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online asynchronous program
    • 1000 total clinical hours required
    • Optional synchronous sessions
    • Small class sizes (15-20 students)
    • California Board of Nursing approved
    • BSN or MSN entry pathways
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Mentorship and personalized support
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice, Clinical Nurse Specialist

    Concentration: Pediatric CNS - Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online asynchronous program
    • 1000 total clinical hours required
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Two entry pathways: BSN and MSN
    • Pediatric CNS concentration available
    • 3.3 years program completion
    • Optional synchronous sessions
    • Faculty mentorship provided
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online asynchronous program
    • 1,000 total clinical hours
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Two entry pathways: BSN and MSN
    • Optional synchronous sessions
    • Small class sizes (15-20 students)
    • 52% job growth projection
    • $820 per unit tuition
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice, Healthcare Leadership

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online asynchronous format
    • 24-month completion time
    • 34 total program units
    • 1000 clinical hours required
    • MSN degree entry point
    • CCNE accredited program
    • Optional synchronous sessions
    • Small class sizes (15-20 students)

San Diego State University

  • BSN to MSN - Advanced Practice Nursing of Adults & the Elderly

    Concentration: Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • Dual certification pathway
    • 768 total clinical hours
    • Adult Gerontology focus
    • National certification eligible
    • Two or three-year program
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Advanced Practice Nursing of Adults and the Elderly - Campus Based - Website

    • 50-unit graduate nursing program
    • Advanced Practice Nursing concentration
    • Full or part-time study options
    • Requires active RN license
    • Prepares adult/gerontology nurse practitioners
  • MSN to DNP - Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • Clinical doctoral degree for RNs
    • 70-78 total program units
    • Full-time: 3 years, Part-time: 4 years
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Two years RN experience needed
    • No GRE required
    • Two recommendation letters
    • Evidence-based practice focus
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • 70-78 total program units
    • Full-time or part-time options
    • 3-4 year completion timeline
    • Preparation for FNP certification
    • Evidence-based practice focus
    • No GRE required
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Two years RN experience needed
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Campus Based - Website

    • Full-time 3-year program
    • Part-time 4-year option
    • 70-78 total program units
    • RN licensure required
    • Two years nursing experience
    • 3.0 minimum GPA
    • No GRE required
    • Certification exam preparation

United States University

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid online and campus format.
    • Tuition cost $42,734 total.
    • Eligible for national certification exams.
    • Requires in-person immersion experiences.
    • Focus on family nurse practitioner specialty.
    • Covers advanced health assessment skills.
    • Includes clinical practicum hours.
    • Based on Caring Science model.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing – Nurse Educator

    Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Nurse Educator concentration.
    • Total cost $16,405.
    • Monthly payment $415.
    • 24-month completion time.
    • Accelerated 12-month pathway.
    • Admission requires graduate requirements.
    • Includes teaching residency.
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Online Learning - Website

    • 100% online delivery.
    • Program length 24 months.
    • Total 38 semester credits.
    • Tuition $34,453 including fees.
    • Monthly payment plan available.
    • Requires master's degree for admission.
    • 1000 practice immersion hours.
    • Two virtual residencies required.

University of San Diego

  • BSN to MSN - Executive Nurse Leader MSN

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format.
    • Focuses on nurse leadership competencies.
    • Prepares for roles like nurse manager.
    • Includes networking opportunities.
    • Designed for working professionals.
    • Emphasizes practical experience.
    • Based on AONL competencies.
    • Offers financial aid options.
  • BSN to MSN - MSN: Clinical Nurse Leader

    Campus Based - Website

    • 31-unit advanced generalist degree.
    • Campus-based program delivery.
    • Eligible for Clinical Nurse Leader certification.
    • Prepares for clinical faculty roles.
    • Focus on evidence-based practice.
    • Includes physical assessment course.
    • Pharmacology application to practice.
    • Health informatics management covered.
  • MSN to DNP - Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Nursing Informatics and Data Science - Campus Based - Website

    • 78-83 total program units
    • Full or part-time enrollment
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • One year clinical experience preferred
    • Campus-based program
    • Minimum two campus days weekly
    • Advanced clinical practice focus
    • Technology and data science concentration
  • MSN to DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner in Emergency Care

    Concentration: Emergency Care - Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based DNP program
    • Minimum 1 year emergency nursing experience required
    • 3.0 GPA minimum requirement
    • 70-83 total program units
    • Full-time or part-time enrollment options
  • MSN to DNP - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based DNP program
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • 78-83 total program units
    • One year RN experience needed
    • Full or part-time options
    • Advanced clinical practice focus
    • Evidence-based healthcare approach
    • Leadership development emphasis

San Marcos, CA

California State University-San Marcos

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Clinical Nurse Leader - Campus Based - Website

    • Clinical Nurse Leader concentration
    • Part-time and full-time options
    • Gerontology specialization available
    • Leadership and management focus
    • Advanced nursing practice curriculum
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Clinical Nurse Leader - Education - Campus Based - Website

    • Part-time and full-time options
    • Clinical Nurse Leader concentration
    • Gerontology/Education specialization
    • 3.0 GPA admission requirement
    • One year RN experience needed
    • Leadership-focused curriculum
    • Advanced healthcare management training
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Clinical Nurse Leader - Gerontology - Campus Based - Website

    • Part-time program, 2.5 years
    • Three concentration options
    • Gerontology specialization available
    • 21 total CNL units
    • Leadership and management focus
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Must complete within 5 years
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Part-time MSN program
    • Total program cost $34,251
    • Family Nurse Practitioner specialization
    • 49 total program units
    • Minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA required
    • California RN licensure needed
    • One year nursing experience
    • ANCC credentialing exam eligible
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Part-time MSN program
    • Two specialization tracks
    • Total cost $34,251
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • One year nursing experience
    • Cohort-based learning
    • ANCC exam preparation
    • Campus visits weekly
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Clinical Nurse Specialist - Online Learning - Website

    • Two program pathway options
    • 500 clinical field study hours
    • Multiple concentration tracks
    • Part-time program design
    • National certification preparation
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Advanced research methods
    • Healthcare policy focus
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Clinical Nurse Specialist - Adult/Gerontology - Online Learning - Website

    • Online and part-time options
    • Multiple nursing concentrations
    • 500 clinical practice hours
    • National certification preparation
    • Advanced practice specializations
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required
    • Comprehensive graduate core courses
    • Leadership and research focus
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Clinical Nurse Specialist - Advanced Public Health - Online Learning - Website

    • Part-time program options
    • Three concentration paths
    • 500 hours clinical field study
    • National certification preparation
    • Accredited nursing program
    • Advanced health assessment courses
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Online and campus learning
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Clinical Nurse Specialist - Pediatrics - Online Learning - Website

    • Part-time flexible program
    • 500 clinical practice hours
    • National certification eligible
    • Advanced pediatric nursing focus
    • Evidence-based curriculum
  • MSN to DNP - BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • 79 total semester units
    • 1000 doctoral clinical hours
    • Evidence-based practice focus
    • Advanced clinical competencies
    • Leadership and policy training
    • Family Nurse Practitioner track
    • Non-online instructional model
  • MSN to DNP - BSN to Doctor of Nursing Practice

    Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 79 semester total units
    • 1000 doctoral clinical hours
    • Hybrid program format
    • 750 patient care hours
    • Evidence-based practice project
    • Mental health specialty track
    • Advanced practice preparation

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

    Concentration: Nurse Educator - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program delivery.
    • Nurse Educator concentration.
    • 36 total credit hours.
    • Includes practicum courses.
    • Requires BSN for admission.
    • Active nursing license needed.
    • Minimum 3.0 GPA required.
    • CCNE accredited program.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

    Concentration: Nurse Executive - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Nurse Executive concentration.
    • 36 credit hours required.
    • 290 practicum hours included.
    • BSN entry only.
    • Six trimesters duration.
    • Acceleration options available.
    • CCNE accredited.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

    Concentration: Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner - Online Learning - Website

    • Online program format.
    • Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner concentration.
    • CCNE accredited.
    • BSN or RN entry pathways.
    • 55 credit hours for BSN entry.
    • 754 practicum contact hours.
    • One virtual clinical intensive.
    • Flexible start dates available.
  • BSN to MSN - Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner

    Concentration: Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) - Online Learning - Website

    • Online coursework format.
    • One required on-campus intensive.
    • Multiple program pathways available.
    • RN to MSN: 59 credits.
    • BSN-entry MSN: 50 credits.
    • BSN-entry DNP: 71 credits.
    • Post-Graduate Certificate: 31 credits.
    • Practicum hours required.
  • BSN to MSN - Nursing, MSN

    Concentration: Nurse Informaticist - Online Learning - Website

    • Online delivery format.
    • 36 total credit hours.
    • Nurse Informaticist concentration.
    • Includes practicum courses.
    • BSN and license required.
    • Accelerated study plans available.
    • Interprofessional learning environment.
    • Focus on healthcare technology.
*Data derived from the 2024 IPEDS survey conducted by NCES.

Comprehensive List of Nursing Schools Near San Diego, CA

If you're looking for nursing schools near San Diego, California, you'll find many options. This list includes schools in various cities across the region. It shows their program highlights and provides links to each school's program page. You can explore different nursing programs to find one that fits your goals. Check the table below for details on locations, programs, and direct links to learn more.
Jump to City:

Chula Vista, CA

Southwestern College

  • Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 2-year program duration
    • Campus-based learning
    • TEAS test required
    • Minimum 2.5 GPA in sciences
    • Clinical practice included
    • NCLEX-RN exam eligibility
    • Financial aid available
    • Diverse patient care focus

El Cajon, CA

Grossmont College

  • Associate - LVN to RN Transition Program

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Prepares for national licensure
    • Combines classroom and practical training
    • For LVNs advancing to RN
    • Includes military-trained healthcare options
    • Prerequisites may apply
    • Personalized education plans available

San Diego, CA

National University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Generic Entry

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • Approved by CA BRN
    • Eligible for NCLEX exam
    • Focus on transcultural nursing
    • Develops critical thinking skills
    • Emphasizes communication skills
    • Prepares for diverse healthcare settings
    • Combines human care with science

Pacific College of Health and Science

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Concentration: Integrative Nursing - Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Hybrid program format
    • Integrative Nursing concentration
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN® exam
    • No prerequisites required
    • Competitive tuition
    • Financial aid available
    • Under 3 years completion
    • GPA ≥ 2.75 for admission

Point Loma Nazarene University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • 98.3% NCLEX-RN pass rate
    • 900 clinical hours
    • Faith-based curriculum
    • 3.0 GPA requirement
    • Chemistry and anatomy prerequisites
    • Hands-on clinical experience
    • Highly respected in San Diego
    • Compassionate care focus

San Diego City College

  • Associate - Associate Degree Nurse (Generic)

    Campus Based - Website

    • Two-year nursing curriculum
    • State board approved program
    • NCLEX-RN exam preparation
    • Multiple entry pathway options
    • Supervised clinical experiences

San Diego State University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Direct entry for freshmen
    • Competitive admissions
    • Hands-on clinical practice
    • Focus on evidence-based practice
    • Comprehensive coursework
    • Professional development emphasis
    • Minimum GPA 3.0 required
    • Strong science and math grades needed

San Marcos, CA

California State University-San Marcos

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • 5-semester program
    • 67 semester units
    • Campus-based learning
    • NCLEX-RN eligibility
    • For degree holders
    • San Marcos and Temecula cohorts
    • Didactic and clinical coursework
    • Bachelor of Science in Nursing
  • Bachelor's - Traditional BSN

    Campus Based - Website

    • Bachelor of Science in Nursing
    • Direct entry for freshmen/transfers
    • 4 years for freshmen
    • 3 years for transfers
    • Cohort-based program
    • Full-time study
    • Daytime courses
    • Clinical placements vary
  • Bachelor's - Veteran BSN Pathway

    Campus Based - Website

    • Intensive five-semester program.
    • Cohort-based learning model.
    • Credit for military experience.
    • Prepares for RN licensure.
    • Financial aid eligible.
    • Military benefits applicable.
    • Hands-on clinical training.
    • Full-time commitment required.

Palomar College

  • Associate - Associate in Arts in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • QSEN standards curriculum
    • Four-semester coursework
    • Diverse clinical experiences
    • Prerequisites required
    • Financial aid available
    • Support services offered
  • Associate - Associate in Science in Nursing

    Campus Based - Website

    • Campus-based program
    • Prepares for NCLEX-RN
    • QSEN standards curriculum
    • Four semesters post-prerequisites
    • LVN to RN option available
    • Holistic care focus
    • Evidence-based practice emphasis
    • Diverse clinical experiences
*Source data: IPEDS 2024, compiled by NCES.