12 Best Nursing Schools In San Diego - 2023 Update
In 2023, San Diego continues to stand at the forefront of excellence in nursing education, offering a wealth of opportunities for aspiring healthcare professionals. With an array of top-tier institutions dedicated to nurturing the next generation of nurses, we present the 12 best nursing schools in San Diego.
Whether you're embarking on a journey to become a registered nurse, nurse practitioner, or pursuing advanced degrees in nursing, this comprehensive guide will navigate you through the leading nursing programs in this vibrant coastal city. Join us as we explore the institutions, their unique features, and their commitment to delivering exceptional nursing education in San Diego.
Best nursing schools in San Diego
San Diego boasts several reputable nursing schools. Here are 12 of the bests:
1. University of San Diego
The University of San Diego Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science (HSON) is a nationally recognized leader in nursing education. The school offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs that are designed to prepare students for successful careers in nursing.
The HSON is committed to providing students with a rigorous and challenging educational experience. The school's faculty are experts in their fields and are dedicated to helping students achieve their academic and professional goals.
University of San Diego tuition costs:
Tuition fees at the University of San Diego's Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science can vary based on the specific program and whether a student is full-time or part-time. For the master's program, the tuition is approximately $1,690 per credit, with estimated total costs ranging from $70,980 to $95,150 for the entire program duration.
University of San Diego NCLEX pass rate average:
The NCLEX pass rate for the University of San Diego was 96.92% in 2022.
University of San Diego accreditation status:
The University of San Diego Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science (HSON) is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The CCNE is the national accrediting agency for nursing education programs in the United States.
Accreditation by the CCNE is a mark of excellence in nursing education. It demonstrates that the HSON meets the CCNE's rigorous standards for quality and effectiveness.
University of San Diego degree programs offered:
Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Post-Master's Certificate Programs
Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)
University of San Diego campus description:
The HSON is located on the University of San Diego's beautiful campus overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The HSON is located in the heart of the campus and features state-of-the-art classrooms, simulation labs, and a clinical skills center.
2. San Diego State University
San Diego State University (SDSU) is a public research university located in San Diego, California. It’s among the best nursing schools in San Diego California and is the third-largest university in the California State University (CSU) system, with a student population of over 35,000. The SDSU School of Nursing is a nationally recognized leader in nursing education.
San Diego State University tuition costs:
The basic tuition and fees for both living in university housing and living off-campus is $8,290.
San Diego State University NCLEX pass rate average:
SDSU's NCLEX pass rate is approximately 95.70% based on a three-year average, which indicates a strong performance on the NCLEX exam.
San Diego State University accreditation status:
The SDSU School of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). The CCNE is the national accrediting agency for nursing education programs in the United States.
San Diego State University degree programs offered:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
San Diego State University campus description:
The SDSU campus is located in the heart of San Diego, just minutes from the beach. It is a vibrant and active community. The campus is home to a variety of student organizations, clubs, and sports teams. The SDSU campus is also home to a variety of cultural and artistic events throughout the year.
3. National University
National University (NU) is a private, nonprofit university with its main campus in San Diego, California. NU is one of the largest universities in the United States, with a student body of over 40,000 students, and offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs.
National University tuition costs:
National University's tuition is $13,320 for 2023-2024.
National University NCLEX pass rate average:
The NCLEX pass rate at National University is 89.27% based on a 3-year average.
National University accreditation status:
Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
National University degree programs offered:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-BSN)
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Second Bachelor's Degree)
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice
Doctor of Nursing Practice in Executive Leadership
National University campus description:
The university's main campus is located in La Jolla, California. NU is known for its flexible scheduling options and its commitment to providing access to education for working adults. The university offers a variety of evening, weekend, and online courses, making it possible for students to balance their studies with their work and family commitments.
4. California State University, San Marcos
California State University, San Marcos (CSUSM) is a public university located in San Marcos, California. CSUSM is one of the 23 campuses of the California State University system. The university has a student body of over 15,000 students.
California State University tuition costs:
The tuition costs at California State University (CSU) can vary depending on the program and the number of units you're taking. Here's an overview of the CSU tuition costs:
Undergraduate, Credential, Graduate, and Doctoral Programs:
- For 6.1 or more units, the tuition fee is $3,330.
- For 0-6 units, the tuition fee is $1,932.
Postbaccalaureate or Graduate Programs:
Graduate or other postbaccalaureate students will pay a tuition fee of $7,176 for more than six units and $4,164 for six or fewer units.
Please note that these costs are subject to change, and it's essential to check the latest tuition and fees on the official CSU website for the most up-to-date information.
Keep in mind that tuition costs may also differ for California residents and non-residents, with non-residents typically paying higher fees.
California State University NCLEX pass rate average:
The NCLEX pass rate of BSN students at this university is 96%.
California State University accreditation status:
The CSUSM School of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
California State University degree programs offered:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN)
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
California State University campus description:
The campus is situated on a 304-acre hilltop overlooking the city of San Marcos and the surrounding valleys. The CSUSM School of Nursing is located in the Science Building, which features state-of-the-art classrooms, simulation labs, and a clinical skills center.
5. Point Loma Nazarene University
Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) is among the best Christian private nursing schools in San Diego. PLNU has a student body of over 3,500 students. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program.
Point Loma Nazarene University tuition costs:
Tuition and fees for both in-state and out-of-state are $43,550.
Point Loma Nazarene University NCLEX pass rate average:
Point Loma Nazarene University's NCLEX pass rate average is 83.03%.
Point Loma Nazarene University accreditation status:
The PLNU School of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
Point Loma Nazarene University degree programs offered:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Point Loma Nazarene University campus description:
The PLNU campus is located on a beautiful 90-acre bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The campus is home to a variety of academic buildings, as well as student housing, dining facilities, and recreational amenities.
The PLNU campus is known for its Christian values and its commitment to academic excellence. The university offers a variety of support services to help students achieve their academic goals. PLNU is also known for its beautiful campus and its vibrant student life.
6. Southwestern College
Southwestern College (SWC) is a public community college located in Chula Vista, California. The college offers a wide range of associate degree and certificate programs, including a Nursing program. SWC is also known for its affordable tuition and its diverse student body.
Southwestern College tuition costs:
The tuition cost is $34,900.
Southwestern College NCLEX pass rate average:
The average NCLEX pass rate of this university from 2019-2022 for ADN programs was 89.43% and for LVN programs in California was 97.67%.
Southwestern College accreditation status:
Accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC)
Southwestern College degree programs offered:
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Vocational Nursing (VN) certificate
Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) to ADN Bridge Program
Southwestern College campus description:
Southwestern College has campuses in both Kansas and California, each with unique features. One is located in Winfield, Kansas, and offers a traditional residential college experience with programs in professional studies and undergraduate education.
The other one is the Chula Vista campus in California, which is a public community college.
7. Grossmont College
Grossmont College (GC) is a public community college located in El Cajon, California. GC has a student body of over 17,000 students.
Grossmont College tuition costs:
The estimated annual cost is $3,377.
Grossmont College NCLEX pass rate average:
ADN program NCLEX pass rate is 99%.
Grossmont College accreditation status:
The GC Nursing program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). The ACEN is the national accrediting agency for nursing education programs in the United States.
Grossmont College degree programs offered:
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
Practical Nursing (PN) Certificate
Grossmont College campus description:
The GC campus is located in a beautiful setting in El Cajon, California. The GC Nursing program is located in the Health Sciences building, which features state-of-the-art classrooms, simulation labs, and a clinical skills center.
8. Palomar College
Palomar College is a community college located in San Marcos, California. Palomar College is a great option for students who are looking for a quality education at an affordable price. The college offers a variety of degree and certificate programs, and it has a strong reputation for preparing students for success in their careers.
Palomar College tuition costs:
Both in-state resident students and international/foreign students must pay an enrollment fee of $46 per unit.
Palomar College NCLEX pass rate average:
Palomar College's Registered Nursing (RN) program has achieved a solid pass rate for the NCLEX. The pass rates have ranged from approximately 90% to 95% based on the provided search results, indicating a high level of success among program graduates
Palomar College accreditation status:
Palomar College is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
Palomar College degree programs offered:
Associate of Arts (AA)
Associate of Science (AS)
Associate of Arts for Transfer (AA-T)
Associate of Science for Transfer (AS-T)
Career and Technical Education (CTE) certificates
The college also offers a variety of non-credit courses and workshops.
Palomar College campus description:
Palomar College's main campus is located in San Marcos, California. The college's campus is located in a beautiful setting and offers a variety of amenities and resources for students.
9. San Diego City College
San Diego City College (SDCC) is a public community college located in San Diego, California. SDCC offers a variety of degree and certificate programs, including nursing, business, engineering, and the arts. The college also has a strong commitment to student success and offers a variety of support services to help students succeed.
San Diego City College tuition costs:
In-state tuition and fees are $1,144 and out-of-state tuition and fees are $8,512.
San Diego City College NCLEX pass rate average:
The program at San Diego City College ranks among the top nursing programs nationally, with a 3-year average NCLEX-RN passing rate of 99.50%.
San Diego City College accreditation status:
It is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC).
San Diego City College degree programs offered:
Associate of Arts for Transfer (AA-T)
Associate of Science for Transfer (AS-T)
San Diego City College campus description:
The San Diego City College campus is located in the heart of San Diego. It offers a variety of online and hybrid courses, making it a convenient option for students who are working or who have other commitments.
10. San Diego Community College
The San Diego Community College District (SDCCD) is the second-largest of California's 72 community college districts and serves approximately 100,000 students annually at its three, credit colleges, San Diego City College, Mesa College, and Miramar College, as well as seven campuses of San Diego Continuing Education.
San Diego Community College tuition costs:
- The enrollment fee is $46.00 per unit.
- The nonresident tuition fee for the Spring and Summer of 2023 is $304 per unit and for Fall is $331 per unit.
San Diego Community College NCLEX pass rate average:
The 3-year average NCLEX-RN passing rate for San Diego City College is 99.50%, indicating a strong performance in preparing its nursing students for licensure exams.
San Diego Community College accreditation status:
San Diego Community College, including its three colleges, San Diego City College, Mesa College, and Miramar College, is accredited. The colleges are accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC), which is part of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
San Diego Community College degree programs offered:
Associate of Arts for Transfer (AA-T) degrees
Associate of Science for Transfer (AS-T) degrees
San Diego Community College campus description:
The SDCCD consists of three credit colleges and seven campuses of San Diego Continuing Education. The SDCCD's three credit colleges are all located in San Diego. Each college has its own unique campus with a variety of state-of-the-art facilities.
11. United States University, Chula Vista
United States University (USU) is a private, for-profit university located in Chula Vista, California. USU offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including nursing, business, and education.
United States University, Chula Vista tuition costs:
United States University in Chula Vista, California, offers varying tuition costs depending on the program and residency status. As of the 2022-2023 academic year, the average undergraduate tuition and fees for in-state students at this institution were approximately $1,342.
United States University, Chula Vista NCLEX pass rate average:
The NCLEX pass rate for United States University, Chula Vista nursing graduates is 85%.
United States University, Chula Vista accreditation status:
United States University, Chula Vista is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission.
United States University, Chula Vista degree programs offered:
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Master of Arts in Education (MAEd)
Bachelor of Education (BED)
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
Post Master's Nursing (Non-FNP) Certificate Programs
BALBS-MS
United States University, Chula Vista campus description:
USU's campus is located in Chula Vista, California, which is a suburb of San Diego. The campus is small, with only about 60 undergraduate students. USU offers a variety of campus resources, including a library, computer labs, and a student center.
12. Southwestern College, Chula Vista
Southwestern College (SWC) is a public community college located in Chula Vista, California. According to College Factual's analysis, Southwestern College Chula Vista is ranked #295 out of 2,217 schools in the nation for overall quality.
Southwestern College, Chula Vista tuition costs:
- In-state tuition: For California residents, the tuition for the 2023 academic year is approximately $1,342.
- Out-of-state tuition: Out-of-state students are subject to higher tuition costs, with fees around $9,490 for the same academic year
Southwestern College, Chula Vista NCLEX pass rate average:
Southwestern College has an impressive three-year average NCLEX-RN pass rate of 89.60%.
Southwestern College, Chula Vista accreditation status:
SWC is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC). This means that the college has met high standards of quality and is recognized by the state of California and the US Department of Education.
Southwestern College, Chula Vista degree programs offered:
Associate of Arts (AA) degrees
Associate of Science (AS) degrees
Associate of Arts for Transfer (AA-T) degrees
Associate of Science for Transfer (AS-T) degrees
Career and Technical Education (CTE) certificates
Southwestern College, Chula Vista campus description:
SWC's campus is located in Chula Vista, California, which is a suburb of San Diego. The college has a large campus in Chula Vista, offering a wide range of programs, courses, and services.
How to choose the best nursing school?
When selecting the ideal nursing school, it's essential to consider several key factors:
First, ensure the school is accredited by a recognized institution, guaranteeing that it meets national standards for nursing education.
Assess the program's curriculum and clinical opportunities to make sure they align with your career goals.
Additionally, consider location, cost, and the school's reputation in the healthcare community. Speak to current students and faculty to gain insight into the learning environment and support systems.
Lastly, trust your instincts and choose a nursing school that resonates with your aspirations and values to set a strong foundation for your nursing career.
Tips for Success in Nursing School
Success in nursing school requires dedication, hard work, and effective study strategies. Here are some tips to help you excel in your nursing education:
1. Stay organized:
- Use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of assignments, exams, and clinical rotations.
- Create a study schedule to allocate time for different subjects and topics.
2. Develop effective study habits:
- Find a quiet and comfortable study space where you can concentrate.
- Use active learning techniques, such as summarizing information, teaching it to someone else, or creating flashcards.
3. Prioritize time management:
- Break down your study sessions into manageable chunks with regular breaks.
- Avoid procrastination and start assignments and studying well in advance
4. Engage actively in class:
- Attend lectures, labs, and clinicals regularly and actively participate.
- Ask questions when you're unclear about a concept.
5. Utilize learning resources:
- Take advantage of textbooks, online resources, and study guides.
- Seek out additional resources like nursing apps, podcasts, or YouTube channels to supplement your learning.
6. Join study groups:
- Study groups can provide support, accountability, and diverse perspectives on the material.
- Teach and explain concepts to others in the group; it's a great way to reinforce your own understanding.
7. Practice critical thinking:
- Nursing involves critical thinking and problem-solving. Apply these skills to case studies, patient scenarios, and clinical experiences.
- Understand the "why" behind concepts, not just memorizing facts.
8. Take care of your health:
- Get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly to maintain your physical and mental health.
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.
9. Use nursing nnemonics and memory aids:
- Nursing often involves memorizing complex information. Mnemonics, acronyms, and memory aids can help you remember important concepts.
10. Stay informed:
- Keep up with the latest developments in the field of nursing through journals, conferences, and professional organizations.
11. Seek help when needed:
- If you're struggling with a particular topic, don't hesitate to seek help from professors, tutors, or academic advisors.
- If you're dealing with personal issues that affect your studies, reach out to your school's counseling services.
12. Stay professional:
- Maintain a professional demeanor during clinical rotations, respecting patients' privacy and following ethical standards.
- Stay punctual and reliable in your clinical duties.
13. Prepare for clinical:
- Review patient information and relevant procedures before clinical shifts.
- Always follow safety protocols and be attentive to details during patient care.
14. Stay passionate:
- Nursing can be demanding, but a passion for the field can be a powerful motivator. Keep your focus on your long-term goals.
15. Practice self-care:
- Nursing school can be emotionally and physically draining. Take time for self-care activities to relax and recharge.
Success in nursing school is achievable with dedication and the right strategies. Remember that every student's journey is unique, so adapt these tips to your individual learning style and needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 12 best nursing schools in San Diego, as of the 2023 update, provide an exceptional foundation for aspiring nurses to embark on their educational journey and prepare for a rewarding career in healthcare. These institutions offer diverse programs, experienced faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a commitment to excellence in nursing education. Prospective students have a range of options to choose from, catering to their individual needs and career aspirations. As the healthcare field continues to evolve and expand, these nursing schools in San Diego stand as beacons of quality and innovation, equipping the next generation of nurses with the knowledge and skills they need to make a positive impact on patient care and the community at large.
FAQs
1. What is San Diego State Nursing School ranked?
San Diego State University's Nursing School is ranked at No. 78 (tie) in the category of Best Nursing Schools for Master's degrees.
2. Which nursing school in California has no waiting list?
Registered Nurse (RN) Program at Pacific College has no waiting list.
