Best Nursing Colleges in California

San Francisco State University offers a vibrant urban experience for its 18,639 students, fostering a diverse and inclusive campus culture. With a graduation rate of 50%, students can expect solid support on their journey to completion, and the median earnings of $68,077 ten years after graduation demonstrate the value of a degree from this institution.

San Francisco State University

San Francisco, CA · 18,639 students · Public

96% accepted 50% graduate $68,077 earnings

Point Loma Nazarene University

San Diego, CA · 3,188 students · Private nonprofit

With a vibrant campus located in sunny San Diego, Point Loma Nazarene University has a student body of about 3,188. The university supports a significant percentage of Pell Grant recipients, indicating a commitment to accessibility for students from varying economic backgrounds. Graduating 76% of its students, it cultivates an environment where students can thrive and succeed both academically and personally.

84% accepted 76% graduate $63,998 earnings

University of the Pacific

Stockton, CA · 3,204 students · Private nonprofit

University of the Pacific provides a more intimate learning environment with just 3,204 students, allowing for smaller class sizes and more personalized attention from faculty. This private nonprofit institution is known for its focus on academic excellence, and it’s reflected in a graduation rate of 68%, suggesting that many students find the support they need to succeed.

71% accepted 68% graduate $78,445 earnings

With a median earning potential of $54,340 a decade post-graduation, Simpson University in Redding, CA may appeal to students looking for a strong return on their investment. The school has a welcoming acceptance rate of 86%, which can help students feel more at ease during the application process. It's worth noting that 44% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating a commitment to accessibility for those who need financial support.

#11

Simpson University

Redding, CA · 809 students · Private nonprofit

86% accepted 45% graduate $54,340 earnings

Simpson's full profile

#12

La Sierra University

Riverside, CA · 1,116 students · Private nonprofit

92% accepted 64% graduate $61,824 earnings

Sierra College

Rocklin, CA · 14,122 students · Public

Sierra College, located in Rocklin, serves over 14,000 students and offers a diverse array of programs that cater to various interests and career paths. Despite a graduation rate of 40%, the school provides an inviting atmosphere for those looking to explore their academic options before committing to a specific field, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience.

40% graduate $45,294 earnings

Sierra's full profile

#14

Pasadena City College

Pasadena, CA · 21,466 students · Public

With over 21,000 students, Pasadena City College serves as a stepping stone for many who aim to transfer to four-year institutions or enter the workforce directly. The community atmosphere here is vibrant, fostering a diverse student body that includes 31% Pell Grant recipients, making it accessible to many who may need financial support.

44% graduate $43,937 earnings

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#15

National University

San Diego, CA · 10,794 students · Private nonprofit

42% graduate $67,548 earnings

National's full profile

#16

San Diego State University

San Diego, CA · 35,377 students · Public

San Diego State University is a large and vibrant campus, home to over 35,000 students who benefit from a rich array of programs and extracurricular activities. With a graduation rate of 77%, many students find success here, and the school maintains a diverse community where 32% of students receive Pell Grants, highlighting its inclusivity.

36% accepted 77% graduate $64,909 earnings

Vanguard University of Southern California

Costa Mesa, CA · 1,933 students · Private nonprofit

Vanguard University of Southern California attracts students with a strong graduation rate of 56% and a focus on personalized education in a supportive environment. Located in Costa Mesa, this college prioritizes student engagement and academic success, fostering a community where students can thrive. With a median earning potential of $59,541 after ten years, graduates often find themselves well-positioned in the job market.

62% accepted 56% graduate $59,541 earnings

Vanguard's full profile

#18

Biola University

La Mirada, CA · 3,474 students · Private nonprofit

74% accepted 68% graduate $56,778 earnings

Fresno Pacific University

Fresno, CA · 1,544 students · Private nonprofit

64% accepted 53% graduate $58,896 earnings

Fresno's full profile

#20

Sonoma State University

Rohnert Park, CA · 5,166 students · Public

Sonoma State University, located in Rohnert Park, California, serves around 5,166 students in a picturesque setting, combining academic rigor with a vibrant campus life. Known for its supportive atmosphere, many students appreciate the smaller class sizes and opportunities for hands-on learning and research.

93% accepted 59% graduate $65,986 earnings

Sonoma's full profile

#21

Saddleback College

Mission Viejo, CA · 17,684 students · Public

Saddleback College in Mission Viejo serves as a key starting point for many students looking to transfer to four-year institutions. With a large student body of 17,684 and a graduation rate of 46%, the college offers a variety of programs that cater to diverse interests and career goals. Many students find this community college to be an ideal environment to explore their options before committing to a more specialized path.

46% graduate $50,874 earnings

Saddleback's full profile

#22

Westmont College

Santa Barbara, CA · 1,302 students · Private nonprofit

77% accepted 70% graduate $64,778 earnings

Westmont's full profile

#23

California Baptist University

Riverside, CA · 8,179 students · Private nonprofit

85% accepted 61% graduate $61,504 earnings

At the University of California-Irvine, students benefit from a rich academic landscape in a beautiful Southern California setting. The graduation rate of 86% reflects a strong support system that empowers students to succeed and engage fully in their studies.

#24

University of California-Irvine

Irvine, CA · 30,197 students · Public

29% accepted 86% graduate $80,735 earnings

At Concordia University-Irvine, students are part of a smaller community of about 1,500, which helps foster close relationships and personalized attention from faculty. While the graduation rate is 60%, the focus on developing well-rounded individuals suggests that students are supported in their academic and personal growth during their time here.

#25

Concordia University-Irvine

Irvine, CA · 1,536 students · Private nonprofit

66% accepted 60% graduate $65,083 earnings

Concordia's full profile

#26

University of California-San Diego

La Jolla, CA · 34,948 students · Public

University of California-San Diego attracts a diverse student body of nearly 35,000, fostering a vibrant learning environment. Known for its rigorous academic programs, the school has an impressive graduation rate of 87%, which speaks to the support and resources available to students.

27% accepted 87% graduate $84,943 earnings

Located in Visalia, California, the College of the Sequoias serves over 11,500 students. With a diverse campus and a focus on community engagement, it reflects the needs of the region while offering a pathway to further education or career advancement.

#27

College of the Sequoias

Visalia, CA · 11,562 students · Public

36% graduate $39,092 earnings

With a student body of around 4,000, the College of Marin in Kentfield, California, provides an intimate learning environment where students can receive personalized attention. The school’s location offers access to beautiful landscapes and a variety of local resources, fostering both academic success and community engagement.

#28

College of Marin

Kentfield, CA · 4,042 students · Public

38% graduate $42,654 earnings

Situated in Santa Clarita, the College of the Canyons is home to about 15,800 students and emphasizes accessibility and affordability. The relatively low net price of $3,702 after aid makes it an attractive option for many families, particularly for those who are budget-conscious but still want a quality education.

#29

College of the Canyons

Santa Clarita, CA · 15,832 students · Public

44% graduate $49,022 earnings

San Joaquin Delta College in Stockton welcomes nearly 16,000 students and is recognized for its commitment to student success and diverse educational offerings. The college cultivates a supportive environment that helps students transition to four-year institutions or jump directly into the workforce.

#30

San Joaquin Delta College

Stockton, CA · 15,781 students · Public

33% graduate $43,212 earnings

California State University-Sacramento

Sacramento, CA · 28,350 students · Public

California State University-Sacramento is a large public university with a student population of 28,350, making it an accessible choice for many. Although its graduation rate is 56%, the school maintains a high acceptance rate of 94%, providing opportunities for a wide range of students to continue their education.

94% accepted 56% graduate $64,876 earnings

With a student body of over 38,500, California State University-Fullerton is a vibrant community that attracts a diverse range of students. Its graduation rate sits at 70%, which reflects a strong support system for students navigating their college journeys while also highlighting the potential for future success in the workforce.

#32

Saint Mary's College of California

Moraga, CA · 1,947 students · Private nonprofit

87% accepted 70% graduate $78,812 earnings

California State University-Fullerton

Fullerton, CA · 38,546 students · Public

91% accepted 70% graduate $62,951 earnings

California State University-Channel Islands, located in the picturesque city of Camarillo, is a growing institution that serves about 5,013 students. With a graduation rate of 52%, it’s an inviting place for those looking for a supportive community where they can engage deeply with their studies and fellow students.

#34

California State University-Channel Islands

Camarillo, CA · 5,013 students · Public

95% accepted 52% graduate $62,152 earnings

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 98%, California State University-Stanislaus in Turlock is a place where many students can find their footing in higher education. The university's robust student body of 8,385 reflects a diverse community and offers a supportive environment that is essential for academic growth and personal development.

#35

California State University-Stanislaus

Turlock, CA · 8,385 students · Public

98% accepted 56% graduate $63,188 earnings

California State University-East Bay, with nearly 10,000 students, is dedicated to accessibility and inclusion, boasting a staggering acceptance rate of 97%. However, its graduation rate of just 47% signals that students may face challenges in completing their degrees, emphasizing the importance of seeking support services and community connections while enrolled.

#36

Chapman University

Orange, CA · 7,478 students · Private nonprofit

65% accepted 81% graduate $70,070 earnings

Chapman's full profile

#37

Glendale Community College

Glendale, CA · 10,509 students · Public

35% graduate $41,540 earnings

Glendale's full profile

#38

Napa Valley College

Napa, CA · 3,813 students · Public

37% graduate $49,517 earnings

California State University-East Bay

Hayward, CA · 9,809 students · Public

97% accepted 47% graduate $71,401 earnings

California State University-Long Beach, with nearly 36,000 students, is a bustling hub of academic and personal growth in Southern California. The school attracts a diverse array of students, including 50% Pell Grant recipients, reflecting its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity in education.

#40

California State University-Long Beach

Long Beach, CA · 35,924 students · Public

46% accepted 69% graduate $64,403 earnings

Situated in the heart of California's Central Valley, the University of California-Merced is an emerging institution with a strong focus on research and community engagement. With a high acceptance rate of 91% and 59% of students receiving Pell Grants, it draws a diverse population eager to make a difference in their fields and communities.

#41

University of California-Merced

Merced, CA · 8,372 students · Public

91% accepted 69% graduate $64,368 earnings

#42

College of the Redwoods

Eureka, CA · 3,829 students · Public

30% graduate $36,243 earnings

Nestled in San Marcos, California State University-San Marcos has a student population of about 14,900. With a graduation rate of 54%, it provides a solid foundation for students, even as they navigate their academic journeys. The welcoming community and supportive resources help students stay on track toward their degrees.

#43

Barstow Community College

Barstow, CA · 2,657 students · Public

36% graduate $35,104 earnings

Barstow's full profile

#44

Santa Barbara City College

Santa Barbara, CA · 9,889 students · Public

34% graduate $47,647 earnings

California State University-San Marcos

San Marcos, CA · 14,877 students · Public

95% accepted 54% graduate $62,908 earnings

California State University-Dominguez Hills is an accessible public university in Carson, CA, with an impressive acceptance rate of 93%. While the graduation rate is 45%, the university is dedicated to helping students succeed, particularly those who may be the first in their families to attend college. This welcoming atmosphere can make a significant difference for students looking for a supportive community.

#46

California State University-Dominguez Hills

Carson, CA · 12,538 students · Public

93% accepted 45% graduate $57,162 earnings

Located in the heart of Los Angeles, California State University-Los Angeles has a student body of nearly 20,000. With a graduation rate of 53%, it faces hurdles, but many students find paths to succeed, supported by a dynamic urban environment that offers opportunities for internships and networking.

#47

California State University-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA · 19,562 students · Public

91% accepted 53% graduate $59,211 earnings

California State University-Northridge is home to a large and vibrant student body of 32,691. This school thrives on diversity, welcoming students from various backgrounds, and boasts a rich array of programs that cater to different interests and career paths.

#48

California State University-Northridge

Northridge, CA · 32,691 students · Public

93% accepted 57% graduate $59,115 earnings

With a 94% acceptance rate, California State University-San Bernardino welcomes a diverse group of students, making it an accessible choice for many. The university also has a strong commitment to serving Pell Grant recipients, with 58% of students receiving this critical financial support, showing its dedication to affordability and inclusivity.

#49

California State University-San Bernardino

San Bernardino, CA · 15,023 students · Public

94% accepted 55% graduate $59,977 earnings

#50

College of the Siskiyous

Weed, CA · 1,190 students · Public

32% graduate $39,098 earnings