11 Best Nursing Schools in San Diego – 2024

Written By: Darby Faubion BSN, RN

Are you considering a career in the nursing field or thinking of taking your nursing career to the next level? Do you live in or near San Diego? Perhaps you have delayed beginning or furthering your nursing pursuits because you wonder, "What are the best nursing schools in San Diego, California?” If this sounds like you, keep reading! In this article, you will learn where to find the best nursing schools in San Diego, CA, for 2024 and discover information about their programs, curriculum, costs, and how to get started on your journey.

RECOMMENDED ONLINE NURSING SCHOOLS

5 REASONS WHY SAN DIEGO IS A GREAT PLACE TO PURSUE A DEGREE IN NURSING

Choosing a nursing school and program is a significant milestone in achieving your nursing career goals. It is essential to consider a school's location and if it is a good place to pursue a degree. The following are a few reasons why San Diego is a great place to pursue a nursing career.

1. San Diego has a population of 1.42 million people. As baby boomers age and the need for healthcare services increases, the city will need qualified nurses to provide that care.

2. Nurses in San Diego, California, earn more money than most nurses nationwide.

3. The 10-year job outlook for nurses of all degree levels in San Diego is promising. The job growth in the next decade will range between 14.34% and 30.77% among each of the nursing degrees.

4. Endless opportunities to work in your desired setting: San Diego has more than 30 hospitals, 87 nursing homes, and hundreds of physicians' offices and outpatient clinics, which means you won't have trouble finding a job.

5. Many nursing schools in San Diego offer undergraduate, graduate, and post-master's certificate programs, which means you never have to stop learning and growing your career.

WHAT TYPES OF UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS ARE OFFERED BY NURSING SCHOOLS IN SAN DIEGO?

If you want to earn your degree in four years or less, an undergraduate program may be your best option. There are several undergraduate nursing programs to choose from to become a nurse in San Diego, California. San Diego nursing schools offer six undergraduate programs: LPN/LVN to RN, LPN/LVN to BSN, Associate Degree, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, RN to BSN, and Accelerated BSN.

S. No	Type Of Undergraduate Program
1	LPN/LVN to RN
2	LPN/LVN to BSN
3	Associate Degree Nursing
4	Bachelor of Science in Nursing
5	RN to BSN
6	Accelerated BSN

WHAT TYPES OF GRADUATE PROGRAMS ARE OFFERED BY NURSING SCHOOLS IN SAN DIEGO?

Perhaps you would like a graduate degree in nursing and hope to pursue advanced practice. If this sounds like you, there are several accredited nursing schools in San Diego that offer those options. The graduate nursing programs in San Diego include options such as RN to MSN, BSN to MSN, Direct-Entry MSN, BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, Post-Master's Certificate, and Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (Ph.D.).

S. No	Type Of Graduate Program
1	RN to MSN
2	BSN to MSN
3	Direct-Entry MSN
4	BSN to DNP
5	MSN to DNP
6	Post-Master’s Certificate
7	Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (Ph.D.)

HOW LONG DO UNDERGRADUATE NURSING PROGRAMS IN SAN DIEGO TAKE?

Undergraduate programs at accredited nursing schools in San Diego can take from 18 months to four years to complete, depending on your previous college credits and which program you choose. The following are a few examples of how long some undergraduate nursing programs in San Diego last.

• Southwestern College- Chula Vista offers an undergraduate associate nursing degree that can be completed in two years.

• San Diego State University’s RN to BSN program can be completed in as few as 12-15 months.

• Point Loma Nazarene University offers a traditional BSN program that takes four years to complete.

HOW LONG DO GRADUATE NURSING PROGRAMS IN SAN DIEGO TAKE?

Graduate programs at some of our featured nursing schools in San Diego take between 12 months and three years to complete. The following are a few examples of graduate nursing programs in San Diego and how long it takes to complete them.

• United States University- Chula Vista’s MSN programs can be completed in 12 or 24 months, depending on your chosen specialty and whether you choose a traditional or accelerated study plan.

• The University of San Diego’s Master's Entry program is a five-semester or 21-month program.

• National University’s Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) can be completed in three years of full-time study.

HOW MUCH DO UNDERGRADUATE NURSING PROGRAMS IN SAN DIEGO COST?

Undergraduate program tuition varies from one nursing school in San Diego to the next. Some programs cost as little as $5,000 while others cost $40,000 or more. The following are some examples of what a few of the undergraduate nursing programs in San Diego cost.

• Tuition for the nursing programs at National University is calculated at a rate of $388 per unit of credit. The program requires 92 units of credit, making the average cost of the BSN program $35,696.

• At Southwestern College, the Associate of Science degree in Nursing costs between $8,474 and $8,997.

• The ADN program at Grossmont College costs approximately $5,800.00. This tuition is based on the current tuition rate of $46 per unit and includes parking permits, health fees, immunizations, and hospital requirements.

HOW MUCH DO GRADUATE NURSING PROGRAMS IN SAN DIEGO COST?

Graduate nursing programs in San Diego can cost as little as $30,000 to more than $80,000, depending on your chosen program. Below are a few examples of tuition costs at some of the nursing schools in San Diego, California, featured in this article.

• Point Loma Nazarene University’s nursing programs cost $820 per unit. For example, the Master of Science in Nursing program at PLNU requires 37 to 50 units of credit to graduate, depending on your entry point and choice of concentration. With this rate, tuition for the MSN program ranges from $30,340 to $41,000.

• United States University offers three pathways for students who wish to pursue a graduate nursing degree. The MSN-Family Nurse Practitioner program costs $32,230. The Healthcare Leadership and Nurse Educator specialty concentrations cost $12,350 each. These prices include student fees.

• Tuition at the University of San Diego’s MSN program is approximately $68,880, an average of $1,640 per unit. The Ph.D. program costs $80,640.

WHO ACCREDITS NURSING SCHOOLS IN SAN DIEGO?

Accreditation is a voluntary process of evaluating nursing programs to determine if they meet state and national standards for education. The process ensures that nursing programs nationwide meet common quality standards. The following are a few accreditations you should look for when choosing accredited nursing schools in San Diego.

1. Accreditation Commission For Education in Nursing (ACEN): The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing is the leading authority for nursing education accreditation. The ACEN provides accreditation for all levels of nursing education and supports transition-to-practice programs.

2. Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE): The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education is recognized as a national accreditation agency by the United States Secretary of Education. The CCNE contributes to the improvement of public health and promotes the quality of baccalaureate and graduate nursing programs and nursing residencies and fellowships.

3. Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA): The Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs accredits nurse anesthesia programs that offer master's and doctoral degrees. The COA offers the CRNA School Search, an online database with information about accredited nurse anesthesia programs in the United States.

4. Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME): The Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education works to ensure midwifery programs provide a high-quality learning experience for nurses who wish to pursue careers as midwives. The ACME is recognized by the United States Department of Education as a national accrediting agency for nurse-midwifery and midwife education programs.

WHAT ARE THE BEST NURSING SCHOOLS IN SAN DIEGO (CALIFORNIA) FOR 2024?

(Based on our Ranking Methodology, the following are the best-accredited nursing schools in San Diego, California.)

The following is a list of some of the best-accredited nursing schools in San Diego. Here you will find information about the schools, some interesting highlights about the nursing school, and learn about the programs the schools offer.

1. San Diego State University

About The Nursing School:

San Diego State University is counted among the best nursing schools in San Diego. The university offers bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing. All nursing programs at San Diego State University are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

The San Diego State University School of Nursing promotes the development of practice-relevant leaders, capable of developing collaborative partnerships to improve health outcomes for patients, families, and populations. SDSU embraces a rich diversity of populations among its faculty, staff, and student populations.

Key Highlights About This Nursing School

• Direct Entry BSN students are guaranteed admission into the science majorpreparation courses through a program called Batch Registration.
• The School of Nursing at San Diego State University was established in 1953 with the introduction of a baccalaureate nursing program. The university added the master's nursing program in 1982.

Undergraduate Programs Offered:

San Diego State University offers four undergraduate nursing programs, so you can choose a program that best fits your needs.

The Direct Entry BSN program is the most common route of entry and is direct entry from high school. First-time freshmen can expect to complete the program in four years. The Direct Entry BSN program involves a rigorous course curriculum through which students complete 120 units.

The Second Bachelor's Degree in Nursing is for students who already have a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher learning. Because of the sequencing of the clinical component, this program is not considered accelerated. The duration of the program is three academic years or six semesters. In this program, you will complete 55 units of nursing coursework.

The Transfer Student BSN option takes three years to complete. Students who are currently enrolled at a college or university outside of SDSU are eligible to apply to the Transfer BSN option. Also, graduates of an accredited college or university seeking a second bachelor’s in nursing may apply for this nursing program option.

If you have an Associate degree in nursing (ADN) and want to take the next step in progressing your degree and career, the RN to BSN program at San Diego State University could be an excellent choice for you. The program is designed for on-campus class delivery and includes clinical rotations at various healthcare facilities. In this program, you will earn thirty-five units of credit, nine in general education, and twenty-six nursing-specific courses. The RN to BSN program takes twelve to fifteen months to complete.

S. No	List of Undergraduate Programs
1	Direct Entry BSN
2	Second Bachelor’s BSN
3	Transfer Students BSN
4	RN to BSN

Graduate Programs Offered:

San Diego State University is home to one of the best MSN programs in San Diego. Students who pursue an MSN at the university may choose between Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems and Advanced Practice Nursing of Adults and the Elderly ( Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (NP).

Both these MSN programs in San Diego are available in two- and three-year formats. Students in the AGPCNP program complete 50 units of credit and at least five hundred post-baccalaureate clinical hours relevant to Adult/Gerontology nursing. The Leadership in Health Care Systems program requires 36 units of credit.

S.No	List of Graduate Programs
1	Master of Science in Nursing : Advanced Practice Nursing of Adults & the Elderly ( Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (NP) and Adult-Gerontology Acute/Critical Care Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)) and Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems

2. University of San Diego

About The Nursing School:

The Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science at the University of San Diego offers some of the best nursing programs in San Diego, California. Most nursing students at the University of San Diego are already licensed nurses pursuing a graduate degree. However, this school also offers a master's entry program for professionals wishing to transition their careers to nurses.

Faculty at the University of San Diego school of nursing foster an environment conducive to learning strong clinical practice and compassionate healthcare while promoting academic research. As a student in this program, you will benefit from forward-thinking programs and learn to apply their concepts in the university's innovative Simulation Center.

Key Highlights About This Nursing School

• The University of San Diego ranks #2 among Catholic graduate nursing schools in the United States.
• The Master's and DNP programs at the University of San Diego consistentlyrank in the top ten percent of 700 graduate nursing schools in the US.

Graduate Programs Offered:

The University of San Diego offers five graduate nursing programs in San Diego as well as several options for students who wish to pursue a specialty concentration. The following are a few examples of the graduate programs at this outstanding.

The Master of Science in Nursing offers three paths of study: Executive Nurse Leader, Nursing Informatics, and Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist. If you choose the University of San Diego MSN program, you also have the option to pursue a dual study path, the Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist/Executive Nurse Leader. Each specialty shares a common nursing course curriculum and has individual specialty-specific coursework.

• Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist is a 44-credit hour post-baccalaureate program. Graduates of this program are eligible for certification as clinical Nurse Specialists in the state of California. They are also eligible for national certification as Adult Health/Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialists by the American Association of Critical Care Nurses and American Nurses Credentialing Center.

• The Executive Nurse Leader track requires students to complete 33-credit hours. After completing this program, you may seek certification from the American Organization of Nurse Executives in Executive Nursing Practice or Nurse Manager and Leader. You may also choose to seek certification in Nursing Executive practice or Advanced Nursing Executive practice from the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

• The Master of Science in Nursing, Nursing Informatics graduate program prepares students for certification as Nurse Informaticists through the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society and the American Nurses Credentialing Center. This program requires 45-credit hours of post-baccalaureate coursework.

• The Dual Adult-Gerontology CNS/Executive Nurse Leader program participates in an accelerated, three-year curriculum. The program includes 500 precepted clinical hours and 225 hours of clinicals with an executive nurse leader with a minimum director-level position.

This nursing school in San Diego also offers a Master’s Entry Program in Nursing for individuals with a bachelor's degree or higher in a non-nursing specialty. The program takes five terms or 21 months to complete. The curriculum is rigorous, as students learn general nursing coursework to gain a nursing foundation and master's level coursework to help develop the knowledge and skills necessary for nursing leadership. Graduates of this program are prepared as Advanced Nurse Generalists and receive a Master of Science in Nursing as Clinical Nurse Leaders.

A doctoral degree is a terminal nursing degree, which means it is the highest nursing degree you can earn. In nursing, there are two types of doctoral degrees: the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (Ph.D. in Nursing). A DNP is a practice doctorate, and a Ph.D. in Nursing is a research doctorate. The University of San Diego offers three doctoral nursing programs: the BSN to DNP, MSN to DNP, and Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing.

The BSN to DNP program is designed for baccalaureate-prepared registered nurses who wish to further their careers as nursing informaticists, health system leaders, and nurse practitioners. Students in this program complete between 70 and 83 units of credit, depending on their focus of study.

The University of San Diego combines face-to-face learning with the flexibility of online learning offering its MSN to DNP program in a hybrid format. This program includes on-site intensives two weekends each semester, with the remaining coursework completed online. The MSN to DNP program is presented by internationally recognized clinicians and scholars. Students may choose from four pathways: Advance Practice, Nursing Informatics and Data Science, Emergency care (for current Family Nurse Practitioners), and Health Systems Leadership. Students complete between 34 and 55 units, depending on their chosen specialty.

If the idea of advanced practice and advancing nursing policy interests you and you live in the San Diego area, the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing at the University of San Diego may be an excellent option for you. The program is designed for working professionals ready to tackle issues nurses face.

The Ph.D. program prepares students through didactic coursework, seminars, and tutorials and experientially through collaboration with faculty mentors, independent research, and research assistantships.

S.No	List of Graduate Programs
1	Master of Science in Nursing : Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist , Executive Nurse Leader , Nursing Informatics , and Dual Track Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist/ Executive Nurse Leader
2	Master's Entry Program in Nursing (for non-RNs) : Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) and Advanced Nurse Generalists
3	BSN to DNP : Family Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner in Emergency Care, Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Dual Adult-Gerontology/Family Nurse Practitioner, Health Systems Leadership, and Nursing Informatics & Data Science
4	MSN to DNP : Advanced Practice track (for APRNs), Nursing Informatics & Data Science, Health Systems Leadership, and Emergency Care (for FNPs)
5	Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (Ph.D.)

Certificate Programs Offered:

The University of San Diego offers a post-master's certificate program, the Emergency Care for Family Nurse Practitioners , for individuals who have a Master of Science in Nursing and a Family Nurse Practitioner certification. The Emergency Care for FNPs includes 15 units of coursework credit and 540 clinical hours, delivered over three semesters.

S. No	List of Certificate Programs
1	Emergency Care for Family Nurse Practitioners

3. Point Loma Nazarene University

About The Nursing School:

Point Loma Nazarene University is one of the best accredited nursing schools in San Diego, California. As a Christian university, PLNU seeks to provide quality education while equipping students with everything they need to experience personal and professional transformations and to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to provide quality nursing care.

With undergraduate, graduate, and certificate nursing programs, Point Loma Nazarene University has something to offer everyone. All the nursing programs at PLNU are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

Key Highlights About This Nursing School

• Point Loma Nazarene University has its own chapter of the California Nursing Students' Association (CNSA). The CNSA promotes professionalism and excellence in nursing and provides a community of academic, physical, emotional, and spiritual support to PLNU nursing students.
• In addition to typical nursing classes, coursework for all nursing programs offered at Point Loma Nazarene University include classes that embrace a " calling to the ministry of compassionate care for all people in response to God’s grace. ” Some of these classes include Communicating and Following Faithfully , Inquiring Faithfully, Caring Faithfully, and Leading Faithfully in Diverse Health Systems.

Undergraduate Programs Offered:

Point Loma Nazarene University offers three pathways to earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. So, whether you are just beginning your journey to becoming a nurse or are already a licensed practical/vocational nurse or registered nurse with an associate degree, you have options!

The traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing program requires students to complete 92 credit hours of coursework and 1,100 clinical practice hours. You can graduate in four years if you maintain full-time enrollment.

The RN to BSN option at Point Loma Nazarene University is open to individuals who have completed or are currently enrolled in an associate degree nursing program. Students who enter the program while still enrolled in an ADN program must complete their associate nursing degree and obtain a California registered nurse license prior to the third term of the RN to BSN program.

The RN to BSN program takes as few as 15 months to complete. You must complete 40 units of prerequisite coursework before beginning the nursing component. An additional 80 units of credit will be earned in 3000 and 4000-level nursing courses.

The LVN to BSN program can be completed in as few as three years. Students must complete a total of 120 credits of coursework to be eligible for graduation. Admission faculty will review the LVN to BSN applicant’s previous coursework and decide how many credits to confer toward the BSN degree.

S.No	List of Undergraduate Programs
1	Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
2	RN to BSN
3	LVN to BSN

Graduate Programs Offered:

PLNU offers ADN to MSN and BSN to MSN options for nurses who wish to pursue a graduate degree.

The ADN to MSN option is formatted to complete in two and a half years. If this program interests you, you may complete 11 units of transition courses before beginning the MSN cohort. Unlike some nursing schools in San Diego with ADN to MSN programs, a BSN degree is not granted with this program. One important criterion for admission is you must have at least six months of full-time employment as a registered nurse in a US healthcare facility.

If you already have your BSN and wish to earn a master's degree in nursing, the Point Loma Nazarene University BSN to MSN program could be a great fit for you. The program can be completed in as few as two years. However, you do have the option of spreading classes out and taking longer to graduate.

The MSN program offers five specialty tracks: MSN with Adult-Gerontology CNS, MSN with Pediatrics CNS, MSN with Women's Health CNS, MSN in Nursing Education, MSN in Healthcare Leadership. All tracks include 22 units of MSN core courses, plus track-specific courses. Students in each track also complete a minimum of 500 track-specific clinical hours.

S.No	List of Graduate Programs
1	Nursing, MS: ADN to MSN & BSN to MSN ( MSN with either Business or Education Concentration: Nursing Education and Healthcare Leadership) (MSN without Specialization) and (MSN with Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Track: Adult/Gerontology, Family/Individual Health, and Pediatrics)

Certificate Programs Offered:

Point Loma Nazarene University is one of the nursing schools in San Diego, California, that offers post-master's certificate programs. If you have an MSN degree conferred by a Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, National League for Nursing, or regionally accredited nursing program, you may apply for admission to this certificate program.

The university, which is one of the best nursing schools in San Diego, offers three specialty choices for individuals who wish to pursue a Post-Master's Clinical Nurse Specialist Certificate . Each post-master's certificate option requires students to complete 38 units of credit, which includes 17 units of core courses, nine units from specialty coursework, and 12 units of clinical practicum. The clinical practicum equals 500 clock hours of patient care in a setting relevant to your specialty choice.

S.No	List of Certificate Programs
1	Post-MSN CNS Certificate : Adult/Gerontology Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, and Women’s Health

4. National University

About The Nursing School:

If you want to enroll in one of the best nursing schools in San Diego, National University could be an excellent option for you. National University is the largest private, non-profit university in San Diego. The university is a Yellow Ribbon school, which means military servicemembers and their dependents have the benefit of tuition discounts.

National University offers night and weekend class options as well as on-campus, online, and hybrid modalities. The school boasts of partnerships with top healthcare employers and organizations across the city. This means you can explore a variety of internship opportunities while still in school, and possibly even translate them into employment after graduation.

Key Highlights About This Nursing School

• This nursing school in San Diego offers the most flexibility in terms of year-round enrollment and delivery of courses. So, you can apply as a new admit or transfer student anytime through the year. You may also choose between evening, weekend, and 100% online classes.
• The San Diego campus is one of more than 20 National University locations throughout California.
• At National, each nursing course is four weeks long, meaning you will focus on one course at a time. This helps you to reach your academic goals effectively while juggling other commitments.

Undergraduate Programs Offered:

National University offers undergraduate nursing programs to meet the needs of anyone desiring to earn a BSN.

Non-nurses may choose from three BSN pathways, the traditional BSN, generic BSN, and the Second-Bachelor's BSN program. The programs are offered on-site, where students learn from faculty in a classroom or laboratory setting with a small cohort. Clinical requirements are met at local healthcare facilities and arranged by nursing faculty.

The BSN Completion program, also referred to as an RN to BSN program, is an excellent opportunity to build upon your nursing knowledge and skills while earning a bachelor's degree. The BSN Completion program requires completing 48 quarter units of credit delivered through four- and eight-week courses. The program is offered 100% online and takes 11 months to complete.

Core nursing courses for each of the four BSN programs in San Diego, at National University are similar and include health informatics, evidence-based practice, leadership & management, community population, and quality improvement.

S.No	List of Undergraduate Programs
1	Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
2	Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – Second Bachelor Degree
3	Bachelor of Science in Nursing – Generic Entry
4	Bachelor of Science in Nursing – BSN Completion

Graduate Programs Offered:

National University offers three pathways to earn a graduate degree innursing: the RN to MSN, Master of Science in Nursing with options for Family Nurse Practitioner or Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialties, and Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice.

Registered nurses with an associate degree may choose the RN to MSN pathway. This program is offered 100% online and includes 27 quarter units of coursework.

Baccalaureate-prepared registered nurses may choose the traditional MSN track with options for specialization as a Family Nurse Practitioner or Psychiatric Mental Health NP. This track is offered on campus or online, making it convenient for the working nurse.

Also, this school offers a DNAP for RNs keen on being prepared as a CRNA at the doctoral level. Offered in a hybrid format, the DNAP program can be completed in three years after a BSN and requires earning 138 quarter units. This doctoral nursing program in San Diego emphasizes clinical training and includes seven clinical practicum courses.

S.No	List of Graduate Programs
1	Master of Science in Nursing : Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
2	RN-Master of Science in Nursing
3	Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP)

Certificate Programs Offered:

National offers three certificate programs for students desiring a career enhancement.

The college offers two post-master's nurse practitioner certificate options: Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. These certificate programs are offered in a hybrid format.

The FNP Certificate program includes 53 quarter units of coursework and requires at least 600 hours of hands-on clinical at an approved practicum site. Coursework for this certificate program includes classes such as Primary Care of Women and Children, Advanced Pharmacology, Advanced Pathophysiology, and Care of the Adult and Aged.

The PMHNP certificate program includes 51 quarter units of coursework and a minimum of 540 hours of clinical practice. Coursework includes Psychopharmacology in Mental Health Care, Mental Health Care of the Child/Adolescent, and Psychotherapy.

The LVN to RN certificate option is designed for LVNs licensed in California. It is offered on-site only and requires completion of 30 units of coursework.

S.No	List of Certificate Programs
1	LVN to RN 30 Unit Option Certificate
2	Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate
3	Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate

5. California State University-San Marcos - San Marcos

About The Nursing School:

California State University San Marcos offers some of the best BSN programs in San Diego. The university utilizes innovative instruction models and cutting-edge research, advocating for the healthcare needs of diverse, local, regional, and global populations.

With four BSN options and an MSN program option, there is something for every individual seeking a career as a registered nurse. All BSN, MSN, and post-graduate APRN certificate programs at Cal State University San Marcos are accredited by the CCNE (Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education).

Key Highlights About This Nursing School

• The Traditional BSN program at Cal State San Marcos is an impacted program, which means the major is authorized to use supplemental admission criteria to screen applicants.
• California State University-San Marcos offers some of the best RN programs in San Diego. The university's RN to BSN program is ranked as the #1 online RN to BSN program in California and #5 nationwide.

Undergraduate Programs Offered:

If you are interested in California State University San Marcos and want to earn a BSN degree, you have the option of choosing from four undergraduate nursing programs: a Traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN, LVN to BSN, and RN to BSN.

The Traditional BSN is a three-year program, which includes two 10-week summer terms. As a student in the TBSN program, you will complete 124-semester units, which includes lower- and upper-level nursing courses.

The Accelerated BSN program is a fast-paced, two-year program designed for students seeking a second bachelor's and have no LVN/LPN or RN coursework history. The curriculum includes 74-semester units. 27 of the required 74-semester units are earned through clinical study at affiliate healthcare facilities.

If you are a Licensed Vocational Nurse with a valid license to practice as an LVN in California, the LVN to BSN program is an excellent option for pursuing a BSN. Applicants for the LVN to BSN program receive credit for up to 17 units of nursing course credit for equivalent LVN courses. This program is designed to complete in three years.

Registered nurses with an associate degree in nursing have the option of choosing the RN to BSN program. The program is designed as an accelerated BSN program, which allows you to graduate with your BSN in 14 months. The RN to BSN program is delivered 100% online, making it a perfect option for working nurses.

S.No	List of Undergraduate Programs
1	Traditional BSN
2	Accelerated BSN (Second Bachelor’s Program)
3	LVN to BSN
4	RN to BSN

Graduate Programs Offered:

Cal State San Marcos is one of the nursing schools in San Diego, California that offers a graduate option.

The Master of Science in Nursing program is designed as a part-time program that accommodates working nurses. This graduate nursing program offers two specialization options: Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

The FNP track requires 52 units of credit and the PMHNP track requires 55. When you complete either of these programs, you will be eligible to take the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) credentialing exam and to become certified as a nurse practitioner in California.

S.No	List of Graduate Programs
1	Master of Science in Nursing : Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Certificate Programs Offered:

If you have already earned a master’s degree in nursing but wish to earn certification in a specialty area, California State University San Marcos’ nursing school in San Diego has a few options. The university offers post-master's certificates with concentration options of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner or Family Nurse Practitioner. Each certificate option requires students to earn 38 units of credit.

S.No	List of Certificate Programs
1	Post Master of Science in Nursing Certificate : Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

6. United States University - Chula Vista

About The Nursing School:

United States University is home to another of the best nursing schools in San Diego. The school of nursing boasts of distinguished nursing faculty who offer support to students through their chosen program and beyond to help promote student success in the classroom and after graduation.

As a nursing student at US University, you can learn at your own pace through online coursework. The RN to BSN program at US university is a top nursing program in San Diego, preparing RNs to build upon previous management and leadership skills while broadening their scope of knowledge and practice to the baccalaureate level.

Key Highlights About This Nursing School

• United States University is accredited by WASC, Senior College, and University Commission.
• Graduates of the School of Nursing have excellent NCLEX pass rates for first-time test-takers.

Undergraduate Programs Offered:

United States University at Chula Vista offers an undergraduate nursing program for diploma-prepared and associate degree registered nurses. The program is delivered in a 100% online format making it easier for workingnurses to juggle school and their busy work and personal lives. The RN to BSN program takes 12 months to complete.

The curriculum includes 30 credits of nursing coursework and is based on a transfer of 90-semester credits from the student's previous nursing program. To meet graduate requirements, you must complete a 45-hour community clinical experience with a focus on community health issues.

S.No	List of Undergraduate Programs
1	Bachelor of Science in Nursing – RN To BSN

Graduate Programs Offered:

The United States University-Chula Vista is another one of our featured nursing schools in San Diego with graduate nursing program options.

As a student in the MSN program at US University, you can choose from three specialty concentrations: Family Nurse Practitioner, Healthcare Leadership, and Nurse Educator.

The Family Nurse Practitioner concentration will prepare you to provide evidence-based and informed practice to culturally diverse patient populations. The program requires completing 48 credits, including 540 clinical practicum hours.

The Healthcare Leadership pathway is designed to prepare students for leadership roles to meet the ever-changing needs of healthcare. The traditional MSN-Healthcare Leadership program is designed to be completed in 24 months. There is also an accelerated option which can be completed in 12 months. The Healthcare Leadership MSN program takes thirty credits to complete. The program also includes 100 hours in a leadership residency where you will collaborate with a nurse leader preceptor.

If you are interested in learning how to design a curriculum and teach as a nursing educator, the MSN-Nurse Educator pathway could be a perfect fit for you. Like the Healthcare Leadership concentration, the Nurse Educator specialty concentration offers 12- and 24-month program options and requires thirty credits of concentration-specific coursework. In addition to coursework, you will complete 100 hours of clinical practice in a teaching residency.

S.No	List of Graduate Programs
1	Master of Science in Nursing: Family Nurse Practitioner , Health Care Leadership , and Nurse Educator

Certificate Programs Offered:

United States University- Chula Vista offers Post-Master's certificate options for any registered nurse who has earned a minimum master’s degree in nursing.

• The Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Master's Certificate is 100% online, except for one 4-day on-campus immersion. In this program, you will complete 34 credits and at least 540 clinical hours.
• The Healthcare Leadership option is a 16-credit program. This option is 100% online and requires an additional 100-clock-hour clinical leadership residency.
• The Nurse Educator post-master's certificate program also requires completing 16-credits and 100 hours of clinical practice.

S.No	List of Certificate Programs
1	Post-Master’s Certificate: Family Nurse Practitioner , Health Care Leadership , and Nurse Educator

7. San Diego Community College

About The Nursing School:

San Diego Community College is one of the oldest nursing schools in San Diego. The College offered its first nursing program, the Licensed Practical/Vocational Nursing program in 1969.

San Diego Community College's mission is to provide educational opportunities for any qualified individual interested in seeking a career in nursing. To keep up with the demand for nurses, the college now offers three undergraduate pathways to become a registered nurse, the traditional ADN, LVN to RN and LVN 30 Unit Option.

Key Highlights About This Nursing School

• This nursing school in San Diego offers a close-knit environment, with cohort sizes of 12 to 15 students. The small classroom makes individualized learning possible and also provides you with ample opportunities to interact with faculty and peers closely.
• The school accepts courses from other accredited colleges, so you may be eligible to transfer credits towards your undergraduate nursing program.

Undergraduate Programs Offered:

San Diego Community College offers three undergraduate nursing programs in San Diego. Each program option is designed to help students develop strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential in providing high-quality patient care.

The two-year ADN program will prepare you for entry-level RN positions capable of providing care across the health and illness continuum to patients from diverse backgrounds. The program’s curriculum requires completing sixty-two units of credit.

The LVN to RN program offers what the college refers to as a step-up curriculum designed to help LVNs transition to the role of registered nurses. In this program, you will complete 45 units of course credit.

The LVN to RN 30 Unit option is another path designed for LVNs wishing to move their careers to the level of registered nursing practice. Students in the LVN to RN 30 Unit program will meet competency standards set forth by the Board of Registered Nursing for California. The program does not confer an associate degree. However, you will be eligible to take the NCLEX-RN as a non-graduate. While California will honor the NCLEX-RN results, you may find it difficult to transfer to another state and practice.

S.No	List of Undergraduate Programs
1	Associate of Science Degree in Nursing (ADN)
2	Licensed Vocational Nurse to Registered Nurse (LVN to RN)
3	Licensed Vocational Nurse to Registered Nurse (LVN to RN (30-unit option))

8. Southwestern College - Chula Vista

About The Nursing School:

Southwestern College- Chula Vista is the only public institution of higherlearning in southern San Diego. The college, which is one of the top nursing schools in San Diego, offers an ADN program designed to prepare students for careers in various nursing specialties. The nursing school places special emphasis on nursing theory, clinical practice, and the study of natural and social sciences, humanities, and nursing care.

Key Highlights About This Nursing School

• Southwestern College has maintained constant accreditation since it opened in 1961. The college is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.
• Southwestern College supports the growth of the region by offering educational, workforce, and economic opportunities, community services, and partnerships.

Undergraduate Programs Offered:

Southwestern College offers one undergraduate nursing program in San Diego, the Associate Degree in Nursing . The ADN program is designed to help you learn the skills necessary to actively contribute to and participate in patient care. As a student in the Southwestern College ADN program, you will learn to effectively articulate issues regarding patient care in diverse healthcare settings with professionalism and competence.

Before applying to the program, interested applicants must first complete 39 units of ADN prerequisite coursework. The ADN program's curriculum consists of 54 units of credit, delivered in a classroom setting. Students complete a minimum of 500 clinical hours beginning in the first semester and lasting throughout the course of the two-year program.

S.No	List of Undergraduate Programs
1	Associate Degree in Nursing

9. Grossmont College - El Cajon

About The Nursing School:

Grossmont College is one of the best nursing schools in San Diego, California. The nursing school prepares students to earn an undergraduate associate degree in nursing. The nursing programs offered by the school include nursing science didactic exposure combined with laboratory experience and hands-on clinical experiences in local hospitals and healthcare facilities.

Key Highlights About This Nursing School

• Grossmont College is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and is also a member of the California Community College Association.
• Grossmont College has its own chapter of the California Nursing Students’ Association.

Undergraduate Programs Offered:

Grossmont College offers an associate degree nursing program available in two formats: the two-year ADN program and an LVN to RN transition program.

The two-year ADN program requires students to complete 126 credits, which includes prerequisites. Students engage in clinicals and lab simulations each week of the program, earning a total of 872 clinical practicum hours. The LVN to RN Transition program takes 18 months to complete. Students complete 70-74 credits and 784 clinical hours.

Coursework in the ADN programs at Grossmont College include classes such as Psychiatric and Community Mental Heal, Sociology of Minority Group Relations, Paramedical Microbiology, and Nursing Pharmacology.

S.No	List of Undergraduate Programs
1	Associate Degree Nursing

10. Palomar College - San Marcos

About The Nursing School:

Palomar College is home to another of our featured accredited nursing schools in San Diego, California. The nursing department provides students with theoretical and clinical experiences designed to incorporate knowledge and skills necessary for delivering quality nursing care.

The nursing programs offered at Palomar College are formatted to complete in two years or four semesters. This timeframe is based on the student completing 32 units of prerequisite courses before beginning the nursing program.

Key Highlights About This Nursing School

• Palomar College offers job skills and advancement opportunities to help nursing students prepare for life after graduation.
• Palomar College was founded in 1946 and supports a large student bodycomprised of diverse cultures, ethnicities, lifestyles, and backgrounds.

Undergraduate Programs Offered:

Palomar College offers two associate nursing degree options: the Associate in Arts in Nursing and the Associate in Science in Nursing. Both these nursing programs in San Diego have the same nursing coursework requirements. However, the Associate in Arts in Nursing option also requires additional general education credits in American History and Institutions.

Students in the Associate in Arts program complete 73 units of credit, and those in the Associate in Science program complete 67 units. All students complete at least 740 clinical hours. Each program is formatted to allow students to graduate in two years.

S.No	List of Undergraduate Programs
1	Associate in Science (AS) in Nursing

11. MiraCosta College - Oceanside

About The Nursing School:

The MiraCosta College Nursing School is dedicated to educating diverse populations of students to step into the role of registered nurses. Professional nursing faculty teach students the art of delivering competent, safe nursing care to patients, families, and societies across the health/illness spectrum.

Key Highlights About This Nursing School

• Considered one of the reputable nursing schools in San Diego, 85% of employers polled rate MiraCosta College nursing graduates as above average in providing safe care, demonstrating the nursing process, and acting in a professional manner.
• LVN-RN and ADN program graduates have excellent NCLEX pass rates for first-time test-takers.

Undergraduate Programs Offered:

MiraCosta College is one of the nursing schools in San Diego, California, that offers an LVN to RN option and an Associate Degree option.

The LVN to RN program is a full-time program that begins once each summer. The program includes 60 units of credit in nursing coursework. Some classes include Contemporary Nursing Practice and Leadership, Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, Social Psychology, and Contemporary Social Problems.

The Associate Degree Nursing program at MiraCosta is one of the two-year nursing programs in San Diego. In this program, students complete 68 units of coursework. Students in both programs must complete a minimum of 500 hands-on clinical practice hours.

S.No	List of Undergraduate Programs
1	LVN-RN
2	Associate Degree Nursing

VIEW OUR RANKING METHODOLOGY

WHAT ARE THE TOP ORGANIZATIONS AND ASSOCIATIONS FOR NURSES IN SAN DIEGO?

1. San Diego Black Nurses Association:

The San Diego Black Nurses Association’s mission is “to decrease healthcare disparities through advocacy, education, and health promotion.” The Association strives to provide Health Education and Promotion to help achieve optimum health for African Americans and underserved populations in San Diego. Their target areas of focus include hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, prostate cancer, breast cancer, and influenza, which are common health issues among African American populations.

2. AORN of San Diego County:

The AORN of San Diego County is a non-profit association dedicated to patient care associated with the perioperative arena. The AORN provides educational opportunities and community outreach programs and addresses legislative matters relevant to perioperative nursing.

3. San Diego National Association of Hispanic Nurses:

The San Diego National Association of Hispanic Nurses is dedicated to supporting and advancing healthcare in Hispanic and underserved communities. The Association also offers support to local nursing students pursuing their nursing careers by offering scholarship opportunities to nursing students of all degree levels in San Diego.

IMPORTANT CAREER INFORMATION FOR UNDERGRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DEIGO, CALIFORNIA

HOW MANY UNDERGRADUATE NURSES ARE THERE IN SAN DIEGO?

There are approximately 44,260 undergraduate nursing professionals in San Diego. Nursing Assistants make up about 8,560 of the undergraduate nurse population in that area and Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses account for 5,930. Registered Nurses hold the highest number of undergraduate nurse jobs in San Diego, with 27,200 RNs currently working there.

Type of Undergraduate Nurse	Employment
Nursing Assistant	8,560
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	5,930
Registered Nurse	27,200
Total Number of Undergraduate Nurses	44,260
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

WHERE DO UNDERGRADUATE NURSES WORK IN SAN DIEGO?

Undergraduate nurses in San Diego work in various settings. Nursing Assistants often work in Nursing Care Facilities and Continuing Care settings such as Retirement Communities and Assisted Living Facilities. Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses and Registered Nurses work in Physicians' Offices, General Medical and Surgical Hospitals, Retirement Communities and Assisted Living Facilities, and Long-Term Nursing Care Facilities.

Undergraduate nurses in San Diego may also work for Home Health Care Agencies or Hospices. However, most states require at least one year of work experience before taking one of these positions.

Type of Undergraduate Nurse	Work Setting
Nursing Assistant	Nursing Care Facilities, General Medical & Surgical Hospitals, Continuing Care Retirement Communities & Assisted Living Facilities for the Elderly, Home Health Care Services, and Employment Services
Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurse	Nursing Care Facilities, Home Health Care Services, Offices of Physicians, General Medical & Surgical Hospitals, and Continuing Care Retirement Communities & Assisted Living Facilities for the Elderly
Registered Nurse	General Medical & Surgical Hospitals, Offices of Physicians, Home Health Care Services, Outpatient Care Centers, and Nursing Care Facilities
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

WHAT IS THE TYPICAL WORK SCHEDULE AND WORK HOURS FOR UNDERGRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DIEGO?

The work schedule for undergraduate nurses in San Diego varies depending on a few different factors. Some nurses may choose to work in physicians' offices or outpatient clinics, which usually have typical office hours of Monday through Friday. It is not uncommon for nurses with families or other non-work responsibilities to seek employment opportunities in settings with more set schedules.

Graduates of undergraduate nursing programs in San Diego, CA, who choose to work in hospital settings, nursing homes, or long-term care facilities may work alternating shifts, which could include nights, weekends, and holidays. For example, some nurses may work seven days on and seven off or four days on and two off.

WHAT IS THE JOB OUTLOOK FOR UNDERGRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DIEGO?

The job outlook for nurses who complete undergraduate nursing programs in San Diego, California, is favorable. According to CareerOneStop.org, Nursing Assistants should see a 14.34% increase in jobs over the next decade. Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses and Registered Nurses should see a 15.14% and 16.70% increase, respectively.

WHAT IS THE STARTING SALARY FOR UNDERGRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DIEGO?

The starting salary for nursing professionals who complete undergraduate nursing programs in San Diego, CA, and become certified or licensed ranges between $30,400 and $75,380 yearly.

Nursing Assistants earn $14.62 per hour, which equals $585 weekly, $2,530 monthly, or $30,400. Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses have a beginning salary of approximately $23.15 hourly, $926 weekly, $4,010 monthly, or $48,160 yearly. Registered Nurses are the top money earners among undergraduate nurses in San Diego, making $75,380 annually, equivalent to $36.24 hourly, $1,450 weekly, or $6,280 monthly.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE SALARY FOR UNDERGRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DIEGO?

The average salary for graduates of nursing schools in San Diego, California, with undergraduate degrees, ranges from $38,580 to $113,150 annually. Nursing Assistants earn the least with average hourly wages of $18.55, which equals $742 weekly, $3,320 monthly, or $38,580 yearly. Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses make $30.59 per hour or $1,223 weekly, $5,300 monthly, or $63,620 annually. Registered Nurses earn generous average wages of about $54.40 per hour, $2,176 weekly, $9,430 monthly, or $113,150 annually.

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY BY LEVEL OF EXPERIENCE FOR UNDERGRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DIEGO

The more experience you have in any career, the better your income-earning potential. Nursing is no exception. For example, a Nursing Assistant in San Diego with one to four years of experience can see as much as a $5,000 increase in their annual salary from their entry-level wages.

LPN/LVNs have entry-level salaries of approximately $48,160. By the time they reach ten years of work experience, they can earn more than $74,000 annually. Registered Nurses in San Diego see significant increases as well, moving from a $75,380 entry-level salary to $110,910 within five to nine years and more than $160,000 once they reach twenty years or more in the field.

UNDERGRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN SAN DIEGO VS. UNDERGRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN CALIFORNIA

Undergraduate nurses in San Diego make a little less than the statewide average. Nursing Assistants earn approximately $1,180 less each year in San Diego than the state average for all other cities in the state. Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses earn $63,620 in San Diego and an average of $65,140 statewide, which is 2.33% less. Registered Nurses have the biggest San Diego vs. California salary differences. The state average income for RNs is $124,000, and in San Diego, they earn $113,150, a difference of $10,850 or –8.75%.

UNDERGRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN SAN DIEGO VS. UNDERGRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN THE NATION

Although graduates of undergraduate nursing programs in San Diego, CA, fall short of the statewide salary average, they earn more than the national average for nurses in their specialties. For instance, Nursing Assistants earn $5,330 more each year than the national average of $33,250, which is a difference of 16.03%.

Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses in the nation earn an average salary of $51,850. In San Diego, LPN/LVNs earn 22.70% more with average salaries of $63,620. Registered Nurses have an even larger salary difference for San Diego vs. the national average. The national average for RNs is $82,750, while registered nurses in San Diego earn $113,150, a 36.74% difference!

UNDERGRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN SAN DIEGO VS. SALARIES OF OTHER CLOSELY RELATED OCCUPATIONS IN SAN DIEGO

The healthcare industry is full of opportunities for steady jobs with great incomes. Undergraduate nursing professionals in San Diego earn good incomes compared to other closely related occupations.

Registered Nurses in San Diego are second only to Physician Assistants, who earn $127,660 yearly, a difference of a little more than $14,000.

Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses in San Diego rank #12 for highest paying healthcare-related jobs out of the top 19. The professions that earn more than LPN/LVNs include Diagnostic Medical Sonographers with average annual salaries of $109,640, Cardiovascular Technologists/Technicians who earn $77,560 yearly, and Physical Therapist Assistants who make $70,410 annually.

Although Nursing Assistants are not top money-earners in San Diego, their salaries are higher than in some similar professions. Nursing Assistants make more than $38,000 yearly, which is higher than Emergency Medical Technicians, Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers, and Home Health and Personal Care Aides who make between $31,790 and $36620 annually.

IMPORTANT CAREER INFORMATION FOR GRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DEIGO, CALIFORNIA

HOW MANY GRADUATE NURSES ARE THERE IN SAN DIEGO?

There are 2,570 graduate nurses in San Diego. This total includes 300 nurse educators, 160 nurse midwives, and 2,110 nurse practitioners.

Type of Graduate Nurse	Employment
Nurse Educator	300
Nurse Midwife	160
Nurse Practitioner	2,110
Nurse Anesthetist	N/A
Total Number of Graduate Nurses	2,570
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

WHERE DO GRADUATE NURSES WORK IN SAN DIEGO?

Graduate nurses in San Diego work in diverse settings, depending on their specialty concentrations. Many graduate nurses work in general medical and surgical hospitals, physicians' offices, outpatient care centers, or offices of other healthcare practitioners.

Nurse Educators may work in colleges, universities, trade schools, and educational support services. Nurse-Midwives work in physicians' offices, private practices, birthing centers, and in offices of other healthcare practitioners. Nurse Practitioners and Nurse Anesthetists in San Diego work in doctors' offices, general medical and surgical hospitals, and outpatient centers. NPs may also work in-home healthcare services, hospices, and Nurse Anesthetists may work in colleges, universities, or professional schools.

Type of Graduate Nurse	Work Setting
Nurse Educator	Colleges, Universities, & Professional Schools, Junior Colleges, General Medical & Surgical Hospitals, Technical & Trade Schools, and Educational Support Services
Nurse Midwife	Offices of Physicians, General Medical & Surgical Hospitals, Outpatient Care Centers, Offices of Other Health Practitioners, and Local Government
Nurse Practitioner	Offices of Physicians, General Medical & Surgical Hospitals, Outpatient Care Centers, Offices of Other Health Practitioners, and Home Health Care Services
Nurse Anesthetist	Offices of Physicians, General Medical & Surgical Hospitals, Offices of Other Health Practitioners, Outpatient Care Centers, and Colleges, Universities, & Professional Schools
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

WHAT IS THE TYPICAL WORK SCHEDULE AND WORK HOURS FOR GRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DIEGO?

Graduate nurses in San Diego may work at some facilities which require shift work, such as hospitals, outpatient care centers, or after-hours clinics. However, many graduate nurses have the option of working jobs that offer typical office hours.

Depending on where they work, even those with Monday through Friday schedules may be required to rotate the on-call schedule or come in for emergencies. For example, not all deliveries are scheduled. Therefore, a nurse-midwife may be called out during the night or on an off day to deliver a client's baby.

WHAT IS THE JOB OUTLOOK FOR GRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DIEGO?

The job outlook for graduate nurses like those who graduate from nursing schools in San Diego, California, is quite favorable. Nurse Educators can expect to see a 26.53% increase in jobs between 2018 and 2028. Career One Stop anticipates Nurse Practitioners and Nurse Anesthetists will see a ten-year increase in jobs by 30.46% and 30.77%, respectively.

Type of Graduate Nurse	10-Year Job Outlook (2018-2028)
Nurse Educator	+26.53%
Nurse Midwife	N/A
Nurse Practitioner	+30.46%
Nurse Anesthetist	+30.77%
(Source: Careeronestop.org)

WHAT IS THE STARTING SALARY FOR GRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DIEGO?

Graduate nurses in San Diego earn great starting salaries. Nurse Educators make approximately $23.60 per hour, which averages $49,090 yearly. Nurse-Midwives make $23.57 hourly, equal to $943 weekly, $4,090 monthly, or $49,020 annually. Nurse Practitioners earn even more with average monthly salaries of $6,620 or $79,470 each year.

Type of Graduate Nurse	Hourly	Weekly	Monthly	Annual
Nurse Educator	$23.60	$944	$4,090	$49,090
Nurse Midwife	$23.57	$943	$4,090	$49,020
Nurse Practitioner	$38.21	$1,528	$6,620	$79,470
Nurse Anesthetist	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE SALARY FOR GRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DIEGO?

The average annual salaries for graduate nurses in San Diego are generous. Nurse Educators make nearly $93,000 each year, or $44.65 hourly. Nurse-Midwives earn comparable incomes with an hourly rate of $46.47, equal to $8,050 monthly or $96,650 annually. Nurse Practitioners top the average income scale for graduate nurses with annual salaries of more than $130,000.

Type of Graduate Nurse	Hourly	Weekly	Monthly	Annual
Nurse Educator	$44.65	$1,786	$7,740	$92,880
Nurse Midwife	$46.47	$1,859	$8,050	$96,650
Nurse Practitioner	$62.62	$2,505	$10,850	$130,240
Nurse Anesthetist	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

WHAT IS THE AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY BY LEVEL OF EXPERIENCE FOR GRADUATE NURSES IN SAN DIEGO?

Experience is the key to negotiating and earning higher wages, which is evident when you consider the income potential of graduate nurses in San Diego based on their level of experience.

For example, although entry-level salaries are much lower, with as few as one to four years of experience, Nurse Educators can see an increase from $49,090 yearly to $61,270. Nurse Practitioners in San Diego with the same amount of experience can earn as much as $30,000 more than their starting salaries.

With five to nine years of work experience, Nurse Midwives make $77,870 annually, which is a significant increase from their $49,0920 entry-level salary. With just a few more years of experience, they can earn as much as $135,520.

Nurse Practitioners begin their careers earning $79,470 yearly. In as few as one to four years, they can earn $128,370. NPs who remain in this career for twenty years or more earn as much as $170,610 yearly in San Diego.

GRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN SAN DIEGO VS. GRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN CALIFORNIA

The average annual salary for graduate nurses in San Diego is lower than the statewide average. For example, Nurse Educators in San Diego earn $92,880 on average, approximately $13,970 less than the state average of $106,850. Nurse-Midwives in San Diego make 29.49% less than Nurse Midwives statewide, a difference of a little more than $40,000 yearly. The average income for Nurse Practitioners across the state is $151,830, which is $21,590 more than NPs in San Diego.

Type of Graduate Nurse	Average Annual Salary		Difference
	San Diego	California	Number	%
Nurse Educator	$92,880	$106,850	-$13,970	-13.07%
Nurse Midwife	$96,650	$137,070	-$40,420	-29.49%
Nurse Practitioner	$130,240	$151,830	-$21,590	-14.22%
Nurse Anesthetist	N/A	$232,540	N/A	N/A
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

GRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN SAN DIEGO VS. GRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN THE NATION

While graduate nurses in San Diego make less than the statewide average, Nurse Educators and Nurse Practitioners in San Diego make more than the national average. For instance, Nurse Educators make $10,840 more in San Diego than the national average for Nurse Educators. Nurse Practitioners make $12,200 more each year, a 10.34% difference, compared to the national NP income of $118,040.

Nurse-Midwives in San Diego, on the other hand, fall short of the national average by $17,560, a difference of 15.38%. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a national average income for Nurse Anesthetists of $202,470, which is the highest paid of these graduate nurses. However, the BLS does not offer a comparison for Nurse Anesthetist salaries in San Diego.

Type of Graduate Nurse	Average Annual Salary		Difference
	San Diego	National	Number	%
Nurse Educator	$92,880	$82,040	+$10,840	+13.21%
Nurse Midwife	$96,650	$114,210	-$17,560	-15.38%
Nurse Practitioner	$130,240	$118,040	+$12,200	+10.34%
Nurse Anesthetist	N/A	$202,470	N/A	N/A
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

GRADUATE NURSE SALARIES IN SAN DIEGO VS. SALARIES OF OTHER CLOSELY RELATED OCCUPATIONS IN SAN DIEGO

Compared to other closely related occupations in San Diego, Nurse Practitioners have the highest ratings among graduate nurses. Nurse Practitioners in San Diego make less than Radiation Therapists, Pharmacists, and Physicians, but more than all other closely related occupations. Nurse Educators and Nurse-Midwives earn the lowest reported salaries when compared to closely related occupations with average annual incomes of $96,650 and $92,880.

Job Title	Average Salary
	Hourly	Weekly	Monthly	Annual
Physician	$131.06	$5,243	$22,720	$272,610
Pharmacist	$70.09	$2,804	$12,150	$145,790
Radiation Therapist	$63.12	$2,525	$10,940	$131,280
Nurse Practitioner	$62.62	$2,505	$10,850	$130,240
Physician Assistant	$61.38	$2,455	$10,640	$127,660
Physical Therapist	$50.17	$2,007	$8,700	$104,360
Occupational Therapist	$49.12	$1,965	$8,510	$102,170
Speech-Language Pathologist	$48.63	$1,945	$8,430	$101,150
Audiologist	$48.54	$1,942	$8,410	$100,960
Nurse Midwife	$46.47	$1,859	$8,050	$96,650
Nurse Educator	$44.65	$1,786	$7,740	$92,880
Nurse Anesthetist	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
(Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics)

MY FINAL THOUGHTS – IS BECOMING A NURSE IN SAN DIEGO WORTH IT?

If you live in or near San Diego and are considering becoming a nurse or earning a higher nursing degree, there are many options to help you achieve that goal. Throughout this article, we have discussed answers to the question, "What are the best nursing schools in San Diego, California?" Some schools offer online classes while others offer on-campus or hybrid options, which means there is something for everyone. In fact, the best nursing schools in San Diego, CA for 2023 featured in this article offer excellent opportunities.

As a nurse and nurse educator, I encourage you, if you dream of becoming a nurse or furthering your education and you live in the San Diego area, consider one of these schools and programs and go make your dream a reality!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY OUR EXPERT

1. Which Is The Best Nursing School In San Diego?

San Diego State University is home to the best nursing school in the San Diego area.

San Diego State University

2. Which School Offers The Best ADN Program In San Diego?

San Diego Community College offers the best associate degree nursing program in San Diego.

San Diego Community College

3. Which School Offers The Best BSN Program In San Diego?

The best Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs in San Diego are offered at San Diego State University.

San Diego State University

4. Which School Offers The Best MSN Program In San Diego?

San Diego State University has the highest-ranked Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program in San Diego.

San Diego State University

5. Which School Offers The Best DNP Program In San Diego?

The University of San Diego is home to the best Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program in San Diego.

University of San Diego

6. Which Is The Highest Paid Nurse In San Diego?

Nurse Practitioners earn the highest wages of all nurses in San Diego. These advanced practice nurses make approximately $130,240 yearly.

Nurse Practitioner

$130,240

7. Which Is The Lowest Paid Nurse In San Diego?

Nursing assistants are the lowest-paid members of the San Diego nursing workforce. CNAs make an average of $38,580 annually.

Nursing Assistant

$38,580

8. How Much Does An Entry-Level Registered Nurse Make In San Diego?

The entry-level salary for registered nurses in San Diego is $75,380 per year. This income is equivalent to $6,280 monthly or $1,440 weekly and $36.24 per hour.

Hourly	$36.24
Weekly	$1,450
Monthly	$6,280
Annual	$75,380

9. How Much Does An Entry-Level Nurse Practitioner Make In San Diego?

Nurse practitioners beginning their careers in San Diego earn an excellent entry-level salary of approximately $38.21 per hour, which equals $1,528 weekly, $6,620 monthly, or $79,470 annually.

Hourly	$38.21
Weekly	$1,528
Monthly	$6,620
Annual	$79,470

10. On Average, How Much Does A Registered Nurse Make In San Diego?

Registered Nurses in San Diego earn a generous average annual income of $113,150.

Hourly	$54.40
Weekly	$2,176
Monthly	$9,430
Annual	$113,150

11. On Average, How Much Does A Nurse Practitioner Make In San Diego?

Nurse Practitioners in San Diego earn approximately $130,240 annually, which equals $62.62 hourly, $2,505 monthly, or $10,850 monthly.

Hourly	$62.62
Weekly	$2,505
Monthly	$10,850
Annual	$130,240

12. Which Nurse Has The Highest Job Outlook In San Diego?

Nurse Anesthetists have the highest job outlook among all nurses in San Diego, with a 30.77% projected increase in job availability.

Nurse Anesthetist

+30.77%

13. Which Nurse Has The Lowest Job Outlook In San Diego?

Nursing Assistants have the lowest job outlook among all nursing-related jobs in San Diego. Although the projected outlook is lower than other nurses, nursing assistants will still see an increase of 14.34%.

Nursing Assistant

+14.34%

14. Which Hospitals Hire The Most Number Of Nurses In San Diego?

Nine hospitals in San Diego have the highest number of nurses on staff. Those hospitals are Sharp Memorial Hospital, UC San Diego Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente's Zion Medical Center and San Diego Medical Center, Scripps Mercy Hospital San Diego, Alvarado Hospital Medical Center, the Naval Medical Center of San Diego, San Diego VA Medical Center, and Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for Women and Newborns.

Rank	Hospital
1	Sharp Memorial Hospital
2	UC San Diego Medical Center
3	Kaiser Permanente Zion Medical Center
4	Scripps Mercy Hospital-San Diego
5	Alvarado Hospital Medical Center
6	Kaiser Permanente San Diego Medical Center
7	Naval Medical Center San Diego
8	San Diego VA Medical Center
9	Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for Women and Newborns

15. Which Nursing Homes Hire The Most Number Of Nurses In San Diego?

The top ten nursing homes with the highest number of nurses in San Diego are Avocado Post-Acute, Edgemoor Hospital, Villa Rancho Bernardo Care Center, Country Hils Health Care Center, The Shores Post-Acute, San Diego Post-Acute Center, Balboa Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Villa Coronado D/P Skilled Nursing Facility, and the Veterans’ Home of California at Chula Vista.

Rank	Nursing Home
1	Avocado Post-Acute
2	Edgemoor Hospital
3	Villa Rancho Bernardo Care Center
4	Country Hills Health Care Center
5	The Shores Post-Acute
6	San Diego Post-Acute Center
7	Balboa Nursing & Rehabilitation Center
8	Villa Coronado D/P SNF
9	Veterans Home Of California - Chula Vista
10	Jacob Health Care Center, LLC

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