[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Finding the best nursing school in California for your needs can be a daunting task. Learn about the top nursing schools and programs in the state. Find out how to select programs that fit your nursing career goals and learning style, the earning potential for nurses, and licensing requirements.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-flex gap=”xl” align=”left” direction=”column”] [hen-ui-flex gap=”xs” align=”left” direction=”column”] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Explore Popular MSN Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ color=”subtext”]Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”belowTheFold” /] [/hen-ui-flex] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Best Nursing Schools in California[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The list below includes the best nursing programs in California. Students may want to spend some time thinking about what they need in a program, which can provide some direction when exploring school options.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Our Methodology[/hen-ui-text]: We use a [hen-ui-link href=”/methodology/”]data-driven methodology[/hen-ui-link] to rank the best nursing schools in California, making it easier for you to find a program that works for you. Our methodology is based on metrics that we believe matter most to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.[/hen-ui-text]
We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1
University of California-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
The University of California, Los Angeles offers several undergraduate and graduate programs for experienced RNs. The programs train nurses to address the healthcare needs of diverse populations.
One of the top-ranked nursing schools in California, UCLA provides a rigorous curriculum in classroom and clinical settings. The school operates the UCLA Medical Center, a state-of-the-art hospital with various specialty clinics.
Program(s): Bachelor of science in nursing; MSN – master's entry clinical nurse; MSN – advanced practice registered nurse; doctor of nursing practice; and doctor of philosophy
Campus: Los Angeles
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: BSN: $13,804 per year for California residents, $31,026 per year for out-of-state students; MSN: $25,831 per year for California residents, $38,076 per year for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: BSN: High school or GED diploma; MSN: an accredited bachelor's degree, minimum 3.0 GPA, and prerequisite coursework
Minimum Time Commitment: Varies
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: N/A
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: N/A
94%
Online Enrollment
$11,442
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
96%
Retention Rate
$26,544
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
14%
Students Enrolled
44,589
Institution Type
Public
#2
University of California-Davis
Davis, CA
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
The University of California, Davis offers the master's entry program in nursing (MEPN) to prepare enrollees for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). The program provides non-nursing majors with a pathway to earn a master of science in nursing.
Students complete 92 units of coursework in 18 months as part of a cohort. One of the best nursing schools in California, UC Davis charges a flat tuition rate for all students.
Program: MEPN
Campus: Davis
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $116,862 program fee
Admission Requirements: A bachelor's degree; minimum 3.0 GPA; and minimum 2.7 GPA in prerequisite science coursework
Minimum Time Commitment: 18 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 90% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: N/A
90%
Online Enrollment
$11,442
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
93%
Retention Rate
$26,544
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
46%
Students Enrolled
39,074
Institution Type
Public
#3
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, CA
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
The University of California, Irvine enrolls students without a nursing degree in the master's entry program in nursing (MEPN). The two-year program leads to a master's in nursing science and prepares enrollees for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN).
The program includes clinical simulations. One of the top nursing programs in California, the MEPN offers clinical rotations at UCI Health.
Program: MEPN
Campus: Irvine
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $3,814 per semester for California residents; $7,896 per semester for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: A bachelor's degree; minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA; and prerequisite coursework
Minimum Time Commitment: 24 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 87.5% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: N/A
99%
Online Enrollment
$11,442
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
94%
Retention Rate
$26,544
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
30%
Students Enrolled
36,303
Institution Type
Public
#4
Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego, CA
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Point Loma Nazarene University offers a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) that prepares enrollees for RN licensure in California. The BSN offers a faith-based curriculum that emphasizes servant leadership.
Students complete a year of prerequisite courses as pre-nursing majors before they enter the program. Coursework covers nursing fundamentals and how to work with various populations. Enrollees complete more than 1,100 clinical hours.
Program: BSN
Campus: San Diego
Type: Private
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $20,200 per semester
Admission Requirements: First-year students apply for one year of prerequisite courses as pre-nursing majors
Minimum Time Commitment: 4 years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 82.5% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $85,210 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
35%
Online Enrollment
$11,880
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
84%
Retention Rate
$11,880
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
84%
Students Enrolled
4,616
Institution Type
Private
#5
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
The bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) at San Diego State University enrolls first-year students, transfer students, and those who hold a non-nursing bachelor's degree. Enrollees learn how to care for various populations such as children and the mentally ill.
Degree-seekers receive hands-on experience throughout their training. Learners complete an international experience to explore local populations and their challenges.
Program: BSN
Campus: San Diego
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $2,871 per 6.1 credit for California residents; out-of-state learners pay an additional $396 per unit
Admission Requirements: First-year students need a minimum 3.0 GPA in A-G coursework, and a minimum B grade in algebra, biology, and chemistry prerequisites; transfer students need a minimum 3.2 GPA and prerequisite coursework
Minimum Time Commitment: 4 years for first-year students
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.9% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $87,380 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
99%
Online Enrollment
$ 7,176
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
89%
Retention Rate
$16,680
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
37%
Students Enrolled
36,334
Institution Type
Public
#6
University of San Diego
San Diego, CA
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
The University of San Diego offers a master of science in nursing (MSN) program with three tracks. Learners choose from nursing informatics, executive nurse leader, and adult-gerontology clinical nurse specialist.
Enrollees can also pursue a dual track: adult-gerontology clinical nurse specialist/executive nurse leader. All degree-seekers complete clinical experiences. USD ranks among the most affordable nursing programs in California.
Program: MSN
Campus: San Diego
Type: Private
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $925-$1,640 per credit
Admission Requirements: A bachelor of science in nursing; a minimum 3.0 GPA; an unencumbered, active California RN license
Minimum Time Commitment: N/A
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: NA
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: N/A
9%
Online Enrollment
$27,936
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
84%
Retention Rate
$27,936
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
8,861
Institution Type
Private
#7
California State University-Fresno
Fresno, CA
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Fresno State offers a master of science in nursing (MSN) that emphasizes practice in rural settings and serving clients from various cultural backgrounds. The curriculum focuses on areas such as health maintenance, counseling, and management of health problems.
Students complete clinical experiences in interdisciplinary practice settings. RNs attending one of the best nursing schools in California can culminate the program with a thesis or project.
Program: MSN
Campus: Fresno
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $2,082 per 0-6 units for California residents; out-of-state students pay an additional $396 per unit
Admission Requirements: A bachelor of science in nursing from a program accredited by the National League for Nursing or the CCNE or a non-nursing bachelor's degree; minimum 3.0 GPA; prerequisite coursework
Minimum Time Commitment: N/A
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.1% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $102,410 for master's graduates, according to College Scorecard
99%
Online Enrollment
$ 7,176
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
87%
Retention Rate
$16,680
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
25,497
Institution Type
Public
#8
California State University-Chico
Chico, CA
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Aspiring nurses can enroll in Chico State's bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) to prepare for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) and RN certification. Students can complete the accelerated program in 2.5 years.
The curriculum provides a mix of theoretical classes and clinical courses taught at medical facilities. Graduates can apply for a public health nurse certificate upon graduation from one of the top nursing programs in California.
Program: BSN
Campus: Chico
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $2,726 per 0-6 units for California residents; out-of-state students pay an additional $396 per unit
Admission Requirements: A high school diploma; at least 30 credits for transfer students; official transcripts; and Test of Essential Academic Skills scores
Minimum Time Commitment: 30 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.3% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $95,800 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
100%
Online Enrollment
$ 7,176
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
83%
Retention Rate
$16,680
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
16,746
Institution Type
Public
#9
California State University-Stanislaus
Turlock, CA
4 year
Campus + Online
Accredited
Stanislaus State operates one of the most comprehensive nursing schools in California. Students can complete the RN-to-BSN program entirely online. However, the program includes an on-campus orientation and clinical requirements.
RNs enroll as part of a cohort. They complete 35 units in 12 months. The program requires 90 community health clinical hours over a 10-week summer session. The nursing school offers other programs, including an on-campus MSN - family nurse practitioner.
Program: RN-to-BSN; accelerated second BSN; LVN-to-BSN; MSN - family nurse practitioner
Campus: Turlock
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: BSN: $19,200 total program tuition fees
Admission Requirements: All school transcripts and RN license
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98.2% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $99,450 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
100%
Online Enrollment
$ 7,176
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
87%
Retention Rate
$16,680
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
11,163
Institution Type
Public
#10
California State University-Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA
4 year
Campus
Accredited
At Cal State LA, students choose from four undergraduate nursing programs, including the traditional bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). The BSN prepares students for RN licensure in three years. Students attend classes on campus and complete clinicals in the Los Angeles County area.
One of the best nursing schools in California for transfer students, the college accepts up to 70 transfer units from a community college. Undergraduates can also pursue the one-year full-time RN-to-BSN degree.
Program(s): BSN traditional program; RN-to-BSN; AD-to-BSN collaborative; accelerated BSN
Campus: Los Angeles
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $6,782 per semester for California residents; out-of-state students pay an additional $396 per unit
Admission Requirements: BSN traditional: Prerequisite coursework; minimum cumulative and prerequisite 3.25 GPA; and Test of Essential Academic Skills scores
Minimum Time Commitment: 36 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.4% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $87,550 for bachelor's graduates, according to College Scorecard
100%
Online Enrollment
$ 7,176
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State
83%
Retention Rate
$16,680
Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-State
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
26,745
Institution Type
Public
[hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How to Choose a Nursing Program in California[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Aspiring nurses in California gain access to many programs across the state. However, applicants should identify what they value in a school to narrow down their options. For instance, students should look at tuition rates. This may also influence their decision about attending classes in person or online.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students considering online programs may also want to explore field experience requirements and program length. Many nursing degrees offer accelerated options that allow students to launch their careers quickly.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Other important factors include pass rates for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), acceptance rates, [hen-ui-link href=”/resources//what-is-accreditation/”]nursing school and program accreditation[/hen-ui-link], and financial aid options.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Why Become a Nurse in California[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN), there are more than 330,000 RNs and over 14,000 nurse practitioners (NPs) who hold an active license. Despite a large number of active professionals, BRN data projects an increase in demand for nursing professionals over the next 10 years.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While the cost of living is higher than other states, students can access [hen-ui-link href=”/resources//financial-aid/nursing-scholarship-grants/”]financial aid opportunities for nurses[/hen-ui-link] only available to California students. The [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.csac.ca.gov/cal-grants” target=”_blank”]Cal Grant[/hen-ui-link] is a California-specific financial aid option that does not need to be paid back. To qualify, students must hold one year of residency, U.S. citizenship, and enroll in classes at least part time. For the Cal Grant, applicants should not hold a bachelor’s degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students should also note that California participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Issued NLC licenses allow nurses to practice in multiple states. Additionally, California is not a right-to-work state, which means that nurses do not need to join a union as a condition of employment.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in California[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The [hen-ui-link href=”/state/california/rn-salary/”]average registered nursing salary in California[/hen-ui-link] is higher than anywhere else in the United States. RNs in the state earn an average salary of about $138,000 on average, much higher than the national average of about about $95,000 for RNs, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).The cost of living in California is also higher than in many other states throughout the country. For instance, Los Angeles and San Francisco rank among California’s most expensive places to live.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]California NPs earn $161,540 on average, much higher than the average salary of $128,490 for NPs nationwide, according to the BLS.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Job growth for RNs in California is projected to grow 13% from 2022-2023, which is more than double the 6% average job growth of NPs nationwide, according to the BLS.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students interested in maximizing their earning potential may want to consider programs in cities that offer the highest salaries. The table below includes the top-paying metropolitan areas in California for RNs. In addition to top salaries, graduates can launch their career working for prestigious institutions.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in California[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Top Paying Metropolitan Areas[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Average Salary for RNs (2022)[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]San Francisco — Oakland — Hayward[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Top Paying Metropolitan Areas”]$149,200[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]San Jose — Sunnyvale — Santa Clara[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Top Paying Metropolitan Areas”]$146,870[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Vallejo — Fairfield[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Top Paying Metropolitan Areas”]$142,140[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Sacramento — Roseville — Arden-Arcade[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Top Paying Metropolitan Areas”]$134,350[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Salinas[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Top Paying Metropolitan Areas”]$132,160[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] BLS [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Steps to Becoming a Nurse in California[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/registered-nursing/rn-licensing-requirements-by-state/”]RN requirements in California[/hen-ui-link] include completing the mandatory coursework, participating in field experiences, taking the NCLEX exam, and applying for licensure.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students should note that there are many practitioners in California, which may cause longer waiting periods to get approved for licensure.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]RN Requirements[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Future RNs can take several pathways to begin their careers. Students interested in entering the workforce quickly can earn an [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/adn/”]associate degree in nursing[/hen-ui-link] (ADN), which requires about two years of full-time attendance and qualifies graduates to take the NCLEX exam.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This educational path does not include general education requirements and focuses primarily on the practical RN skills. Graduates typically begin working while earning their [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/bsn/”]bachelor of science in nursing[/hen-ui-link] (BSN).[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students interested in leadership opportunities often earn their BSN and enter the workforce directly after graduation. This educational path requires four years with full-time attendance.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Similar to other states, RNs must renew their license every two years in California unless a practitioner is called to active duty for the military.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]APRN Requirements[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]RNs considering the next step in their career can become an [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/advanced-practice-nursing/”]advanced practice registered nurse[/hen-ui-link] (APRN), which requires a [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/msn/”]master of science in nursing[/hen-ui-link] (MSN) or a [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/dnp//”]doctor of nursing practice[/hen-ui-link] (DNP). Students with a BSN can apply directly to an MSN, complete their field experience, and apply for licensure after graduating.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]ADNs interested in qualifying for advanced positions can enroll in [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/msn/best-online-rn-to-msn-programs/”]BSN-to-MSN programs[/hen-ui-link]. They provide required coursework in an accelerated format. Similarly, schools may also offer [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/dnp//best-online-bsn-to-dnp-programs/”]BSN-to-DNP programs[/hen-ui-link] for qualified students interested in earning a terminal degree. DNP graduates also need to complete the state exam and provide proof of clinical hours to get their license.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]While accelerated programs appeal to practitioners’ long-term goals, students also need to consider APRN programs’ intensity.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Other Top Nursing Programs in California[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-grid columns=”1″ columns-md=”2″ gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-article-card title=”Best MSN Programs in California” href=”/state/california/msn-programs/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-article-card title=”Best LVN-to-BSN Programs in California” href=”/state/california/lvn-to-bsn-programs/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in California[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is California good for nurses?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Factors that determine whether or not a student should launch their nursing career in [hen-ui-link href=”https://nursejournal.org/state/california/”]California[/hen-ui-link] are personal. For instance, practitioners may not mind the high cost of living given the climate and other amenities California has to offer. Other practitioners may consider benefit packages and opportunities for advancement.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]RNs in California can choose from a lot of highly rated programs. Graduates can access high salaries at very prestigious hospitals and private practices. Additionally, practitioners can take comfort in knowing that California needs more skilled professionals in the field, including RNs and APRNs.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is it hard to get a job as a nurse in California?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]California is experiencing a shortage of RNs and NPs. Practitioners should note that they may need to explore less popular cities to find the best opportunities, as many job-seekers consider more popular parts of the state.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Highly prestigious institutions may require more experience or possess higher standards for candidates. Other factors could include NCLEX scores, applicants’ GPA, or letters of recommendation.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is nursing in demand in California?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The demand for licensed nursing professionals has increased throughout the country, including California. Students should note that the healthcare industry relies on nursing professionals at all levels in every speciality.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]For instance, students who go on to earn an advanced degree qualify to become NPs, [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/nurse-educator/”]nurse educators[/hen-ui-link], nurse administrators, or even nurse anesthetists. The healthcare industry also continues to give more responsibilities to nursing professionals, which increases their value in all institutions.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students should also pay attention to the number of professionals in the field close to [hen-ui-link href=”/registered-nursing/guide-to-retirement/”]retirement[/hen-ui-link]. This shows areas of the field that would benefit from highly motivated and skilled professionals eager to fill these openings.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How much does it cost to get a California nursing license?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]RN examination applications for students who graduated in California costs $300, while applicants from another state or U.S. territory pay $350. International applicants must pay $750. However, the repeat examination application costs $250 for all applicants.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Processing periods for licenses can exceed eight weeks. Therefore, students may want to get a temporary permit, which costs $100.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Other miscellaneous costs may include manual fingerprint card processing, which costs $49, and certified copies of students’ school transcripts at $50. Practitioners applying for advanced licenses pay between $300-$500. Temporary permits for these licenses cost $150, excluding the temporary clinical nurse specialist application, which costs $30.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students may also want to think about the cost to maintain their licenses. RNs pay $190, while advanced roles range from $125-$172.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Related Resources[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”slider” ids=”34182,44364,34002″][/hen-ui-article-row]