Best Undergraduate Nursing Schools in California for 2026
California’s demand for skilled, compassionate nurses is at an all-time high—and so is the need for quality nursing education. Whether you’re pursuing a BSN or preparing for a career as a registered nurse, the state is home to outstanding undergraduate nursing programs that combine academic rigor with clinical experience.
At Colleges of Distinction, we evaluate nursing schools based on student engagement, evidence-based curriculum, career preparation, and NCLEX pass rates. Below you’ll find the top undergraduate nursing schools in California for 2026—programs that help future nurses thrive in one of the nation’s most critical and rewarding professions.
Azusa Pacific University
Azusa, CA ‧ Christian‧ 4-year
Azusa Pacific University is an evangelical Christian community of disciples and scholars who seek to advance the work of God through academic excellence in liberal arts and professional programs of higher education – both of which encourage students to develop a Christian perspective of truth and life.
Acceptance rate 79% • Net price $26,117 • SAT Range 994-1314 • Students submitting SAT scores 13%
Total Undergrad Population 2,977 • Setting Suburb • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 64% • Retention rate 84% • Student-to-faculty ratio 10:1
California State University, Fullerton
Fullerton, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
As part of the world-class California State University system, Cal State Fullerton prepares its diverse student body for success in a global society. Titans actively engage in hands-on learning, research, clubs and organizations, and volunteer work that enriches the local community.
Cal State Fullerton may be the largest CSU campus with more than 34,000 undergraduate students, but its mission to provide high-impact immersive learning ensures personal, fulfilling experiences for every student. Located in Orange County, CSUF is near Los Angeles, Disneyland, Universal Studios, and the beautiful California coastline. Students thrive with the support of one-on-one academic advising, college career specialists, and student success initiatives.
Acceptance rate 87% • Net price $6,283
Total Undergrad Population 37,125 • Setting Suburb • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 69% • Retention rate 85% • Student-to-faculty ratio 22:1
California State University, Long Beach
Long Beach, CA ‧ Public‧ 4-year
California State University, Long Beach is dedicated to providing a high-quality education founded on the principles of superior teaching, research, and service for the people of California and the world. Motivated by the values of diversity, integrity, and service, CSU Long Beach strives to make its world-class education accessible and inclusive. The university looks to change lives by expanding educational opportunities, fostering creativity, and preparing future leaders.
CSU Long Beach is proud of the tight-knit community it has cultivated over the years. With a population of over 34,000—and even its own zip code!—the 323-acre campus beckons those who are ready to learn, explore, and succeed. CSU Long Beach boasts a beautiful campus with state-of-the-art research facilities, performing arts centers, and the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden. Students and members of the surrounding community are encouraged to experience all of the beauty and inspiration the campus has to offer.
Acceptance rate 47% • Net price $9,731
Total Undergrad Population 34,243 • Setting City • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 70% • Retention rate 85% • Student-to-faculty ratio 19:1
Fresno Pacific University
Fresno, CA ‧ Private ‧ 4-year
Fresno Pacific University (FPU) is a Christian university committed to academic excellence, spiritual formation, and service to others. Located in the heart of California’s Central Valley, FPU provides a welcoming and inclusive environment where students are equipped to lead lives of purpose, wisdom, and reconciliation in a diverse and changing world.
At FPU, learning is designed to be active and purpose-driven. Students step into internships, participate in community-based research, and contribute to service projects that align with their academic goals. In programs like social work, business, and education, students regularly interact with local organizations, gaining practical experience while addressing real needs.
No matter their major, students are invited to grow through experience, cultivating both confidence and a strong sense of purpose.
Acceptance rate 58% • Net price $15,668
Total Undergrad Population 1,616 • Setting City • Private 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 56% • Retention rate 81% • Student-to-faculty ratio 8:1
San José State University
San José, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
Succeed in your personal and professional life with an education from San José State University. SJSU is a Public University in San José, California.
As one of the most transformative universities in the nation, San José State is ready for big change. As part of Transformation 2030, SJSU’s strategic plan, the campus community is dedicated to realizing the university’s potential as a nationally prominent urban public university. San José State provides a comprehensive university education, granting bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in 250 areas of study. With approximately 36,000 students campus wide and nearly 4,300 employees, SJSU is an essential partner in the economic, cultural and social development of Silicon Valley and California.
Acceptance rate 80% • Net price $13,833
Total Undergrad Population 27,111 • Setting City • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 65% • Retention rate 86% • Student-to-faculty ratio 18:1
University of California, Irvine
Irvine, CA ‧ Public ‧ 4-year
University of California, Irvine is home to 29,000 undergraduate students. With over 85 bachelor’s degrees offered UCI students have many academic options. UC Irvine is a public university in Orange County, California. In 1965, the University of California, Irvine was founded with a mission to catalyze the community and enhance lives through rigorous academics, cutting-edge research, and dedicated public service.
Acceptance rate 26% • Net price $14,647
Total Undergrad Population 29,503 • Setting City • Public 4-year
Graduation rate (6 year) 86% • Retention rate 94% • Student-to-faculty ratio 18:1
What to Know About Nursing Schools in California: FAQs
Many top universities offer standout nursing programs. Schools like Azusa Pacific University, and San Diego State University offer strong NCLEX pass rates, excellent faculty, and access to hands-on clinical placements.
To become a registered nurse (RN) in California, you need an associate’s degree (ADN) or bachelor’s degree (BSN) in nursing and must pass the NCLEX-RN exam. A BSN is increasingly preferred by employers and required for many leadership or specialized roles.
Yes. Most undergraduate nursing programs in California have competitive admissions due to limited clinical placement slots and high demand. A strong GPA, prerequisite coursework, and healthcare experience can improve your chances.
Public universities typically offer lower tuition for in-state students. Many schools also provide scholarships or nursing-specific financial aid. Explore our scholarship list to help lower costs.
About Our Methodology: At Colleges of Distinction, we evaluate undergraduate nursing programs based on engaged teaching, curriculum quality, clinical opportunities, student outcomes, and support for licensure success. Learn more about our methodology here.
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