Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) programs in California are designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field and wish to pursue a career in nursing. These programs offer an intensive curriculum that allows students to complete their nursing education in a shorter time frame, typically between 12 to 18 months.
Students enrolled in ABSN programs benefit from a combination of classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical rotations, ensuring they gain the necessary knowledge and hands-on experience to succeed in the nursing profession. Many programs also offer flexible schedules, including evening and weekend classes, to accommodate the needs of working professionals.
California is home to several reputable ABSN programs, offered by institutions such as the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), California State University, Northridge (CSUN), and the University of San Francisco (USF). These programs are known for their rigorous academic standards, experienced faculty, and strong clinical partnerships with leading healthcare facilities.
Upon completion of an ABSN program, graduates are eligible to sit for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) to become licensed registered nurses (RNs). The demand for highly skilled nurses in California continues to grow, making ABSN programs an attractive option for those seeking a rewarding and stable career in healthcare.
ABSN Program Structure in California
The ABSN program is a fast-track nursing program designed with a completion time of 12 to 18 months. Students will acquire knowledge and skills to succeed on the NCLEX-RN exam and transition seamlessly into registered nursing.
The intense curriculum delves into nursing to develop compassionate nurses capable of transforming healthcare and serving underserved populations. It will include classroom sessions and extensive clinical experiences to support transition into the fast-paced healthcare sector.
Cost of California ABSN Programs
The average cost of tuition for ABSN programs is $63,400. Factors such as location, program delivery, and private versus public schools determine the actual cost of tuition.
ABSN Program Admission Requirements California
Although ABSN programs have individual requirements for admission, securing a spot may be competitive. All programs require a minimum non-nursing bachelor’s degree as a starting point. The program builds on the previous liberal arts and prerequisite courses so students begin core nursing courses from the first semester. Some of the general admission requirements are outlined below.
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
- A grade C or better in all prerequisite courses
- A minimum 3.0 GPA on previous coursework
- A written statement outlining reasons for pursuing nursing
- Professional references
- Complete an admission interview
- Official college transcripts
ABSN Programs in California with NCLEX-RN Pass Rates:
Fullerton, CA ABSN programs:
California State University, Fullerton
800 N. State College Boulevard
Fullerton, CA 92834-6868
(657) 278-3336
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98.53%
Irvine, CA ABSN programs:
Concordia University Irvine
Park Place Campus, 3337 Michelson Dr., Ste. 650
Irvine, CA 92612
(949) 214-3280
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 99.23%
Loma Linda, CA ABSN programs:
Loma Linda University
11262 Campus Street
Loma Linda, CA 92350
(909) 558-1000 x87718
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.07%
Long Beach, CA ABSN programs:
California State University, Long Beach
1250 Bellflower Boulevard
Long Beach, CA 90840-0301
(562) 985-4463
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 100.00%
Los Angeles, CA ABSN programs:
California State University, Los Angeles
5151 State University Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90032-8171
(323) 343-4700
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 98.99%
Mount Saint Mary’s University – Los Angeles
12001 Chalon Road
Los Angeles, CA 90049
(310) 954-4230
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.90%
Northridge, CA ABSN programs:
California State University, Northridge
18111 Nordhoff Street
Northridge, CA 91330-8327
(818) 677-5591
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 96.34%
Oakland, CA ABSN programs:
Samuel Merritt University
3100 Summit Street, 3rd Floor
Oakland, CA 94609
(510) 869-6511 x3765
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 85.85%
San Diego, CA ABSN programs:
National University
16875 West Bernardo Drive
San Diego, CA 92127
(858) 521-3911
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.42%
San Francisco, CA ABSN programs:
San Francisco State University
1600 Holloway Avenue, Burk Hall 371
San Francisco, CA 94132-4161
(415) 338-1801
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.74%
San Marcos, CA ABSN programs:
California State University, San Marcos
333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Road
San Marcos, CA 92096-0001
(760) 750-7550
NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.61%
What is the easiest BSN program to get into in California?
The limited spaces available in nursing programs result in a competitive admissions process for the multitude of applicants to ABSN programs. California State University Long Beach, Samuel Merrit University, and National University accept more applicants than other universities, which will improve your chances of acceptance in the first attempt.
How much does a BSN earn in California?
The BSN nurse earns an average annual salary of $93,408 according to a January 2025 ZipRecruiter report.
Do you need a BSN to work as an RN in California?
The BSN is not the only pathway to licensure as a registered nurse in California. The associate degree in nursing (ADN) is another pre-licensure option to registered nursing. The ADN program may be completed in two years.
What is the fastest ABSN program in California?
The programs available at Mount Saint Mary’s University and Samuel Merrit University may be completed in just 12 months after completion of prerequisite courses.
What is the fastest way to become a nurse in California?
The associate degree in nursing program, with a completion time of two years, provides the fastest route to licensure as a registered nursing in California. Persons with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree may enroll in the ABSN program and prepare for a career in nursing in just 12 months.