Nursing is one of the fastest growing industries in the United States and individuals who have completed accredited nursing degree programs in California and other states are finding it easier to achieve their career goals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the nursing industry is expected to grow by 19 percent over the next decade, which is higher than that of other professions. In addition, a recent study indicates that the more education a nurse obtains, the better their job prospects are. In 2013, there were 252,940 registered nurses in California with an average annual income of $96,980. For advanced degree nurses, the salary increases significantly. A nurse anesthetist in California earns an average of $163,570 while a nurse midwife earns $120,450 and a nurse practitioner earns an average of $110,590 per year. As evidenced by the range of salaries a nurse can earn in California through higher education, it is easy to see why employers are seeking individuals who are successful in accredited degree programs in California. To see more RN-BSN degree programs, visit 30 Best Affordable RN-BSN Degree Programs. Also visit Nursing Degree Programs in California (C) and Nursing Degree Programs in California (D-P), and Nursing Degree Programs in California (Q-Z).

American University of Health Sciences

School of Nursing

Part of a university that was founded in 1994 specifically to train students for careers in the health industry or to seek employment in the health education field, the School of Nursing at American University of Health Sciences earned accreditation in 2003. The school commenced leadership under Founding Dean Dr. Betty Williams and the first class graduated in 2009. The college strives to produce graduates who will make a positive impact on society by preparing a diverse group of men and women to deliver sensitive, competent care to persons in need. The School of Nursing follows a holistic, Christian approach to education, promoting intellectual, analytical and critical-thinking in all students.

Academic Program of Study

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is awarded through an academic program that requires twelve quarters of full-time study. Courses focus on:

  • Biological and Behavioral Sciences
  • Humanities
  • Arts
  • Professional Nursing Courses

There is a minimum of 189 quarter units required for completion with 90 hours of core content required under the Public Health Nurse guidelines. Upon graduation, students are eligible to apply to the State of California for the Public Health Nurse Certificate. In addition, students who have demonstrated competency in all theoretical and clinical courses are eligible to sit for the NCLEX examination in order to become a registered nurse.

Accreditation

  • Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools
  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Contact

American University of Healthcare Sciences
School of Nursing
1600 East Hill Street, Building 1
Signal Hill, CA 90755
Telephone: 562-988-2278
Email: bsinfo@auhs.edu
Website: http://www.auhs.edu/school-of-nursing

Azusa Pacific University

School of Nursing

The Azusa Pacific University School of Nursing prepares students for leadership and collaborative practice in healthcare through a Christian worldview. Using innovative methods of study, the APU School of Nursing provides students a challenging curriculum that includes discussion, mentoring and hands-on experiences in technologically advanced simulation labs as well as a diverse practice environment that help create a well-rounded healthcare professional. Students learn to be compassionate healers, strategic thinkers and build strong ethical principles based on Christian values.

Nursing, B.S. (BSN)

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at APU’s School of Nursing equips students to provide compassionate healthcare with a solid foundation in nursing principles. Students take part in multiple clinical experiences at leading research-based centers that include teaching hospitals, community health centers and other healthcare facilities. The program offers both a Traditional and a Two-Plus-Two option, located at the High Desert campus. Students are encouraged to examine the connection between their Christian faith and their career. The program encourages spiritual growth and the concept of care delivered using a spiritual method.

Accreditation

  • Western Association of Schools and Colleges
  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Contact

Azusa Pacific University
901 East Alosta Avenue
PO Box 7000
Azusa, CA 91702-7000
Telephone: 626-969-3434
Website: http://www.apu.edu/nursing/undergraduate/nursing/

Biola University

School of Arts and Sciences

The School of Arts and Sciences at Biola University incorporates Christian-based education into all curriculums offered. The school has three departments:

  • Fine Arts and Communication
  • Humanities and Social Sciences
  • Sciences

The faculty works closely with students not only to develop the foundations they need to succeed in their career, but also to help them build a strong foundation in faith. The curriculum focuses on the skills necessary for students to become successful leaders in their chosen profession, building on facets of character that strengthen self, family, compassion and a love of God. Knowledge of the Bible is included throughout the curriculum that students can carry with them as they move through their lives and careers long after they graduate.

Department of Nursing Degree Program

The Department of Nursing at Biola University offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The degree is grounded in a strong liberal arts education as well as general education and Bible courses. There is a foreign language requirement that students may complete either by taking two years of high school foreign language and two years of the same language at Biola, or by taking four units of college language at the university. In addition, nursing students are exempt from some of the literature and history general education requirements. The program is designed to prepare students for a career in professional nursing. Students participate in clinical nursing experiences through various agencies throughout Los Angeles and Orange counties. Upon graduation, students may apply for certification as a public health nurse.

Accreditation

  • Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges
  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Contact

Biola University
13800 Biola Avenue
La Mirada, CA 90639-0001
Telephone: 562-903-8000
Website: http://www.biola.edu/academics/undergrad/nursing/

Brandman University

Nursing & Health Professions

The Marybelle and S. Paul Musco School of Nursing & Health Professions was named for the founders of the Santa Ana-based Gemini Industries who have a passion for nursing education after the couple donated a major financial gift. Mr. Musco served as a medic in the United States Navy during World War II and both his sisters, Pauline and Camilla, were military nurses during the war. His brother, Salvator, became a dentist and his son, Paul Sebastian became an ophthalmologist, demonstrating the long history of healthcare professionals throughout the family. Mr. and Mrs. Musco are strong advocates of nursing education. The college offers more than a dozen programs, from certificate courses to doctorate degrees and serves students from throughout the country.

Bachelor of Nursing

The Bachelor of Nursing program at the Musco School of Nursing integrates new and innovative ways to think about the health care system. The program is designed for the registered nurse with an Associate Degree in Nursing who wants to make a difference in patient care. Emphasis is placed on the use of technology, improving outcomes, innovative leadership and the use of evidenced-based practice. The program can be completed in as little as four years. It is delivered in a blend of four day immersions sessions at the Irvine campus at the beginning of the program, internships and clinicals in healthcare settings near the student’s home as well as online lectures, demonstrations and exercises. Program learning outcomes include:

  • Liberal Education that integrates skills, knowledge and values from arts and sciences into nursing practice
  • Leadership skills that incorporate managerial principles
  • The implementation of evidence-based thinking
  • Incorporating technology into patient care
  • Responsibility related to accountability, financial requirements and regulations
  • Ability to communicate effectively in professional, personal and collaborative ways
  • Provide nursing care with an emphasis on health promotion and disease control
  • Demonstrate core professional values and practice within legal and ethical frameworks
  • Incorporate knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for clinical reasoning

Accreditation

  • Western Association of Schools and Colleges
  • Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education

Contact

Brandman University
16355 Laguna Canyon Road
Irvine, CA 92618
Telephone: 800-746-0082
Email: nursing@brandman.edu
Website: https://www.brandman.edu/nursing-health-professions

With the passage of the Affordable Care Act, the healthcare profession is expected to grow dramatically over the next decade. In addition, the need for nurses with advanced degrees is also expected to grow. For these reasons, individuals who successfully complete accredited nursing degree programs in California and other states will find themselves to be more attractive to employers over the next ten years.